The marine industry of today is highly competitive. That means shipyards need to work doubly hard to retain their star performers. As skilled labor employees have a choice in the positions they take, it’s essential that hiring managers pay special attention to how to hire and retain new employees. What kinds of hiring and retention initiatives do you have for your shipyard? Here are just 3 ideas to get you started this summer.
Improve onboarding.
While many of your employees may be contingent staff, did you know that there is an unreasonably high percentage of employees who quit before their first 90 days. This is true for temporary employees as well as permanent hires. So how can you avoid this? Reasons cited by these unhappy former employees include poor training and incompatible company culture. By developing your onboarding program, you can mitigate some of this risk. Encourage new employees to feel comfortable with your environment and learn about the job and your safety programs. Some companies offer a mentorship program where new staff members train with an experienced staff member to show them the job itself and give them an idea of what it’s like to work within your shipyard environment.
Provide feedback.
It’s very common for managers to only provide feedback when there’s a problem or when a 90 day or annual review is due. But waiting can be a huge problem you’re your employees. By providing regular feedback, both positive and corrective, you can encourage open communications between you and your shipyard team. When there are problems or mistakes, don’t wait to say something until it’s too late. Be kind in your criticism and you’re your new employee correct their actions. Also, provide positive reinforcement so your team doesn’t think the only time management talks to them is when there’s a problem.
Offer incentives.
Recognition of a job well done may be the single most powerful motivator on the job. But there are plenty of other incentives that you can offer to create a positive work environment for your shipyard staff. By offering incentives such as a flexible summer work schedule or perks in the community, you’ll attract and retain top talent to your shipyard. While shipbuilding is a physical and dirty job, the environment doesn’t have to be unpleasant and you can make positive changes that impact the culture of your employees.
Work with a leader in shipyard staffing.
Do you want to improve your shipyard retention rates? Contact the experts at Hutco to learn more today.
