Posted on January 12, 2021
By Greg Belpomme, Business Manager at Hays Recruitment, Civil Construction
It’s no secret the world of work has drastically changed since the pandemic hit us. The level of uncertainty the virus has placed upon businesses has been a huge challenge and a strong learning curve for us all.
One thing that hasn’t changed in today’s world is the fact that marine & dredging construction is a necessity. The projects built by marine experts service the general public 365 days a year. However,aswith most businesses, the outbreak has left many companies wondering how to either find talent or retain their existing staff.Hays recently published its2021 US salary guide – an annual report featuring salaries for more than 200 positions, hot jobs and compensation insights from hundreds of hiring managers across the nation.
This year’s guide found 35% of employers are expecting to increase headcount in the next 12 months, and 74% of employers suffer from a shortage of skills in their industry. This leads many employers to ask where and how can they not only attract top talent, but ensure they retain theirhighly skilled workers. Linked with the recent findings, 51% of employees cited they are seriously considering leaving their current employers. These numbers showa strategic hiring plan is needed now more than everto secure top talent.
A key finding from the survey highlights implementation of an “upskilling and reskilling” strategy is crucialfor retention, along with revaluating and improving a strong employee-focused benefits plan. This can mean either hiring candidatesat a less-experienced level and allowing them to undergo company training/mentoring or offering continued learning and development to those already established within the business.
This year’s findings also show benefits are a huge consideration for new employees when deciding whether or not to accept a new role. These benefit offerings can range from increased vacation, a greater company contribution on health coverageto offering“flexible” working hours,e.g. a day or two working from home (for roles in which that is feasible).
With 38% of employers reporting they have experienced an increase in stress and pressure within their teams as a direct impact of not having enough of the right people, it is essential they put a strong hiring plan in place. Working with a specialist marine staffing partner like Hayswill allow companies to hire top talent specific to their business needs in their local area.
To request a free copy of this year’s Hays Salary Guide, please contact Greg Belpomme at 347.352.1692 or greg.belpomme@hays.com. Greg Belpomme is based out of Hay’s New York office in Midtown Manhattan, serving New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
