The importance of making the right appointment has never been greater than it is now, according to a leading recruitment specialist.
Alex McLeod, director at Aberdeen-based Right People, believes that, as a result of the skills shortage continuing to affect the north-east business community, companies are facing increased pressure to find the right person for the job.
Alex said: “Due to a lack of investment in training and developing talent, businesses are left to compete for a small pool of established personnel. The oil and gas industry is just one example where this process is reflected in the salaries of those with the desired skills and experience.
“I am acutely aware, and know only too well, that a company’s employees are its greatest asset. And yet staff turnover, if not managed correctly, can cost businesses money and productivity.
“It can take time for new hires to get up to speed; providing the necessary training and for them to become accustomed to a new company’s processes and procedures. By putting a few simple steps in place, however, companies can find the right solution to staff issues.”
Alex has identified five key measures aimed at helping businesses find the right person for their needs:
• Companies should take a more structured approach to recruitment where they draw up (and stick to) their profile of an ideal candidate before the interview process gets underway.
• Employers should look beyond an individual’s skillset and experience to gauge their transferable skills and determine whether they can bring benefits to the business. This could include considering personnel from diverse industries, not necessarily oil and gas and certainly not industry-specific.
• When increasing staff numbers, businesses need to consider whether that person will be a good fit for the rest of the team. Do they have the right attitude to succeed? It’s about more than just their skills and experience.
“Ultimately, the success of any business comes down to its people,” said Alex. “Get this part right and the rest should fall into place.
“The same is true for all businesses – whether you have five or 500 members of staff – the only way to achieve results is to have all members of your team pulling in the same direction and making them feel part of the business, as if it were their very own.”