Running a quality manufacturing operation isn’t just about stocking the plant with warm bodies. You want the right people for the job. But if you are looking for a manufacturing job, what can you expect the hiring manager to be looking for? And if you’re hiring, what should you be seeking in an employee?
Here are some employee tips that may be helpful for manufacturing workers and some new hire tips you might want to consider if you’re looking to fill particular roles.
Is There a Skills Gap?
Many people are under the impression that manufacturers are only interested in hiring workers who can demonstrate a high level of skill or a high level of education related to the manufacturing position they are seeking.
However, a number of new studies suggest that this is not really the case. Some researchers point to the fact that if the issue were lack of skill, then those workers who are hired would be working longer and getting paid more to compensate for this gap, which is not generally the case.
What Are They Looking For?
Workers who are willing to be trained can very often pick up the skills they need to do the job. What is it that manufacturers who are successful tend to seek out in employees then? Here are some of the biggest attributes that successful manufacturers claim to be drawn to:
- Punctuality – Manufacturing companies very much value employees who show up on time. This seems to be an easy bar to reach, which is precisely why it is so valued. If you can’t be bothered to show up on time, managers will be likely to think they can’t count on you for anything else.
- Positive Attitude – Few things will get you a manufacturing job faster than demonstrating a positive attitude. Those with a positive attitude are much more pleasant to work with and are more likely to be willing to do what is needed to get the job done.
- Willingness to Learn – Those who do not have the skill or education can be trained, but only if they are willing to learn. Potential employees who see the job as an opportunity to expand their skill set will be much more appealing to employers than those who don’t.
- Commitment – Employers are looking for workers who are actually interested in manufacturing and in succeeding in the manufacturing field. Those who are obviously just looking for a job and already have their eye on the next opportunity are unlikely to be attractive to hiring managers.
How to Hire/Get Hired in Manufacturing
If you are looking for a job in the manufacturing field, don’t be deterred by a lack of skills or education. If you are a generally competent person who is excited about working in the manufacturing field and eager to learn, there will often be a job for you. Similarly, if you are a hiring manager, don’t get too caught up in the applicant’s skills or education. Focus on the soft skills like attitude and commitment to find long-term, successful employees you can count on.
For more manufacturing tips or for affordable manufacturing equipment repair, contact Global Electronic Services today.