368 Adapting to the New Workforce: Attracting Top Talent
We\u2019re excited to bring you insights from a recent interview with Tim Fulton, President of Small Business Matters, Vistage Chair Emeritus, and Executive Coach. Tim is a returning podcast guest and a favorite among our listeners, bringing his wealth of knowledge to help you attract and retain top talent in today\u2019s evolving job market.
Labor Market Insights: Navigating the New Normal
Tim starts by addressing a common observation: \u201cMost business owners would tell you the labor market has improved over the past 12 months.\u201d This improvement is particularly notable for small and mid-sized companies. Businesses have adapted post-COVID, finding innovative ways to attract candidates from diverse backgrounds, different markets, and varying levels of education and skills.
Flexibility is Key: Adapting to Workforce Needs
A critical trend highlighted by Tim is the increasing need for flexibility. Companies are shifting from rigid work schedules to more adaptable models, such as offering hybrid work options and flexible hours. Tim emphasizes that the question shouldn\u2019t just be about remote vs. in-office work but rather, \u201cDo I trust my employees?\u201d This trust-based approach focuses on outcomes rather than the specific logistics of where and when the work is done.
Embracing Modern Work Policies: Unlimited PTO and Remote Work
Pre-COVID, concepts like unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) and remote work were often dismissed. However, Tim believes that with the right employees, processes, and procedures, these policies can be effective across various businesses. The modern workforce, especially younger employees, highly values remote work options, making it a crucial aspect of job listings today. As Tim puts it, \u201cToday \u2154 of employees are knowledge workers and work from home. The train has left the station, we are not going backward to office life as we knew it.\u201d
Crafting Compelling Job Listings
Job listings must reflect the current job market's demands. Tim suggests including clear expectations regarding work location, flexibility, and growth opportunities in the description and the job results in the job heading. Additionally, platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, your own company\u2019s website, and local colleges/universities are excellent for reaching a diverse pool of candidates.
Effective Interview Strategies: Finding the Right Fit
During interviews, it\u2019s essential to assess if the candidate can perform the job, fit within your company culture, and work well with you. Tim advises using behavior assessments and post-hire evaluations to ensure you\u2019re making the right choice. Group interviews can be beneficial when you have multiple strong candidates, and using a scorecard can help in making objective decisions.
Ensuring the Right Hire: Comprehensive Evaluation
To confirm you\u2019ve made the right hiring decision, involve various stakeholders in the hiring process, conduct thorough reference checks, and use behavioral assessments to gauge the candidate\u2019s fit within your team.
Conclusion: Prepare to Transform Your Hiring Process
Tune in to the latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O to dive deeper into these insights and more from Tim Fulton. This episode is packed with practical advice and actionable strategies that can transform your hiring process and help you secure top performers for your team.
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Timestamps
01:00 - Trace Blackmore asks you to submit your show ideas
04:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals\xa0
08:15 - Interview with Tim Fulton
59:00 - Closing thoughts with Trace
1:06:25 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald\xa0
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Quotes
\u201cMost business owners would tell you the labor market has improved over the past 12 months.\u201d - Tim Fulton
\u201cWhen interviewing someone ask yourself: \u201cCan they do the job, can they do it here, can they do the job with me?\u201d - Tim Fulton
\u201cAs a manager, you need to ask yourself: Do I want to manage someone's time or their work? Do I want to manage compliance or performance?\u201d - Tim Fulton
\u201cToday, \u2154 of employees are knowledge workers and work from home. The train has left the station, we are not going backward.\u201d \xa0- Tim Fulton
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Connect with Tim Fulton
Email: tim@smallbusinessmattersonline.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/timcfulton/
Twitter: twitter.com/tf_sbm
FaceBook: facebook.com/SmallBusinessMattersOnline/
Website: smallbusinessmattersonline.com
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Tim\u2019s Resources:
Tim Fulton\u2019s Small Business Matters Podcast
Small Business Matters Newsletter
Vistage Chair Executive Coach in Atlanta, GA, Tim Fulton
Vistage Speaker Top Performer Award for 2023, Tim Fulton
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Links Mentioned
The Hang July 11, 2024 at 6pm EST
Ep 114 The One Where We Talk Masterminds
Ep 280 The One About Retaining Top Talent
Ep 353 Steam Boilers Essential Checks with Barry Higgins Part 1
Ep 354 Steam Boilers Essential Checks with Barry Higgins Part 2
Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses
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Books Mentioned
Foolproof Hiring: Powerful, Proven Keys to Hiring HIGH Performers by Brad Smart and Chris Mursau
Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek
Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't by Jim Collins
This Is Marketing: You Can't Be Seen Until You Learn to See by Seth Godin
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
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Drop By Drop with James\xa0
In today\u2019s segment, I have a challenge for you. The challenge is to ask your customer what you can do better? I mean to walk up to your customer, look them in the eye, tell them not to hold back, and ask them what you could be doing better for them. If they give you positive feedback, great!\xa0 If they unload all their pent up frustration upon you. Thank them for taking the time and caring enough to share their thoughts with you. Then take the time to give careful consideration to the feedback you received, even if it offends you at first. Try to have empathy with the customer to understand where they are coming from. Then use this moment to grow and become better. Communication is a two-way street, so be sure to let them know how you have reflected upon and implemented any relevant advice.\xa0
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2024 Events for Water Professionals
Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we\u2019ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.
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