According to a 2007 study by TCIA, the biggest challenge expressed by members is finding and keeping good employees. Now in 2012, it still seems that reliable, qualified, skilled employees are in short supply in many areas. So how do you find and keep good employees? Here are a few tips:

Finding Good Employees:

• If you already have a successful (and reliable) employee, ask him or her to keep their eyes open for possible prospects. If you trust their judgment at work, you just might trust their judgment in others.
• Look to local schools as an opportunity to develop a relationship. You can introduce students interested in arboriculture to the industry, while also bringing new people into your business. And who knows, maybe they’ll return during summers, enjoy the job, and refer their friends.
• Take advantage of your website, the want ads, our Tree Care Industry JobBoard, classified ads in TCI Mag, and word-of-mouth.
• Check with your state's Department of Workforce Development office. During this tough economic time, these agencies provide job placement services without charge to the employer to assist unemployed or under-employed individuals in their search for work.

Keeping Good Employees:

• There should be more to a job than the paycheck. Employees appreciate benefits like growth opportunities, flexibility in scheduling, a congenial atmosphere, and more. Address more than just the basics and you’ll keep your workers satisfied.
• Don’t let your employees think that it’s just a job … emphasize that it’s a career that could be long and satisfying, with the right amount of work.
• Take advantage of technology. Enhance your team communication via email, voicemail or social media to keep your employees informed.
• Establish a good rapport with your employees. You know the old adage “treat others as you would like to be treated.”   By establishing yourself as a good boss, you’ll help build a good team.

Remember that good companies, no matter their size, spend the time and energy to build a solid team. If you have more specific questions, please feel free to contact Bob Rouse, Vice President of Industry Standards & Credentialing, at 603-314-5380.

Do you have suggestions about finding and keeping good employees? Share ‘em below!