FINDING CANDIDATES FOR YOUR CREW
As most fleet managers and business owners know, finding labor is hard—and finding good labor can sometimes feel impossible. However, there are a few easy tactics you can use to widen your pool of applications next time you are looking to grow.
Embrace The Power Of The Internet
Posting open positions on online job boards will allow you to expand your reach and grow your candidate pool.
Tip: Be sure to include a small write-up of the position that features job details, required qualifications, and any additional benefits to attract the most amount of interest.
Use Social Media To Reach A Wider (And Younger) Audience
Whether you run a Facebook ad around your open crew positions or simply share a “now hiring” post to your page, don’t ignore the powers of social media when looking for candidates.
Leverage Your Network
Reach out to any local contacts, vendors, or communities when looking for new candidates. Asking for referrals from those you trust and have an established relationship with is a great way to ensure you are getting qualified candidates.
IDENTIFY THE CHARACTERISTICS YOU WANT IN AN EMPLOYEE
Knowing the difference between a good candidate and the right candidate is often difficult. But, outlining what you want in an employee before the interview process will help you better understand who is the best fit for the job during the process.
What Should You Look For In A Potential Employee?
Dependable: If there are stripes to be laid, they better be there. In this industry, having an employee who shows up every day and performs to the standard they claim they can is about all you can ask for.
Solid People Skills: Yes, lawn care is labor but it’s also customer service. A good crew member is friendly and personable, someone you would be proud to have represent your company and interact with your customers daily.
Eager & Willing to Learn: A good quality for any industry, someone willing to take on any challenge and learn any part of the operation can oftentimes prove themselves indispensable employees.
DON’T OVERLOOK THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING
The only way to start all your new hires off on the right foot, training can be important for seasoned vets and greenhorns alike. Whether they have minimal experience with your brand of machine or are unfamiliar with your company’s way of doing things, the best first step in every new hire process is a simple yet comprehensive training and onboarding process.
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