Effective new manager training is critical as businesses adapt to hybrid and remote work environments. I’ve spoken to several HR and Ops Execs who’ve all shared that Leadership/Management Training and Development is a top priority for the 2nd half of 2024. In this edition of “Engineering 365” let’s explore 5 essential parts of a new manager training program. Why is new manager training important? Your leaders wield an incredible amount of power and influence in

We recently ran a poll on our LinkedIn page seeking feedback from our community on the biggest challenges to hiring/recruiting senior leadership to their companies. It’ll probably come as no surprise that the #1 and #2 challenges were: As companies look to build a strong team of talented & capable leaders, the importance of cultural fit in the hiring process cannot be understated. The workplace culture is consciously and unconsciously built by its founders, original

“Act Globally, Think Locally” This is an often-used environmentalist catchphrase to address climate change and conservation challenges. In 2024, this statement will have a new meaning in the manufacturing sector. Over the past 3-4 years the world has undergone a significant period of global disruption, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing wars, and escalating geopolitical tensions. These disruptions have significantly impacted global supply chains, revealing their vulnerabilities and challenging the traditional model of relying on

For many, Memorial Day weekend not only kicks off the start of summer and family outings but also, a season of reflection and excitement. We’re gently reminded that the second half of the year is just around the corner. With half a year’s data in hand, we are well-positioned to evaluate what’s working and what needs adjustment within our organizations. I’ve observed several teams and leaders diligently reviewing their processes and strategizing enhancements for the

Are you frustrated with new hires who don’t quite measure up, resulting in monetary losses and costing you opportunities and productivity? You’re not alone. The industrial and engineering sectors are always changing and innovating, making the hunt for top-tier talent more competitive and time-critical. In our current environment, executive and engineering search firms emerge as crucial allies, offering much more than mere recruitment services. They are strategic partners in talent mapping, industry trend analysis, and

Welcome to another edition of “Engineering 365”. Over the past decade, the insights and conversations I’ve gathered in the Manufacturing and Engineering recruitment space have shaped many of the topics in this newsletter. This edition is no exception. Recently, I had a conversation with the VP of Engineering at an Oil & Gas company, who shared a critical team-wide challenge: VP: “So, it’s easy for us to find entry-level talent. Folks starting in their career

Companies that successfully attract top talent often have key traits that make them especially appealing to highly sought-after candidates. I recently ran a poll on my page, where I asked my network what is the biggest obstacle in attracting top talent to your team. There were a variety of responses from candidates lacking the necessary skills to the geographic limitations of the company. It got my wheels turning on an alternative question. What are the

A recent Glassdoor survey revealed that 67% of employees rank salary as the most significant consideration when evaluating positions on a job board. Posted salary trumps other factors such as location, commute time, and employee reviews. However, benefits were closely behind, with 63% of employees highlighting their importance. Not much of a shock, right? Employees prioritize competitive compensation packages and will likely overlook job opportunities that do not provide adequate pay. Despite a company’s best

The evidence of change is unmistakable and widespread, as fatigue becomes increasingly apparent. U.S. corporations, already navigating through high inflation, economic uncertainty, a shifting workforce, and the emergence of Artificial Intelligence, now face another significant hurdle: a notable rise in CEO transitions. In May 2023 alone, 224 U.S.-based CEOs stepped down. A significant increase from the 147 departures in April and 49% more than the previous May. This data, compiled by executive coaching firm Challenger,

The manufacturing industry faces a critical shortage of skilled workers, a dilemma intensifying with inevitable demographic shifts away from large cities, the aging and gradual retirement of baby boomers, and the emergence and adoption of advanced technological solutions. Nearly one-fourth of the manufacturing workforce is age 55 or older, which signals a labor shortage for the nation’s fifth-largest employer. As these older workers retire, there is a need to attract and retain quality workers. Despite