Blog Article
Bolting Together the Future of Work: Does Upskilling Lead to Attrition?
By Swetha Anusha Goteti
October 1st, 2024
During a recent visit to a plant to discuss our Bolt CMMS , the plant maintenance head highlighted a significant issue: high attrition rates and the poor quality of incoming hires.
On a factory floor where knowledge is the lifeblood, senior executives possess a wealth of experience, akin to an oracle with a toolbox filled with invaluable tricks. However, the younger generation is often left feeling like they are trying to assemble a complex puzzle without the manual.
A concerning disconnect has emerged between seasoned veterans and the rising generation of workers. This breakdown is evident in the alarming rate of employee turnover and the decline in the quality of new hires, a phenomenon experienced across various sectors.
It's as if the industry is a well-oiled machine with missing cogs.
The Challenge: High Turnover and Poor Quality Hires
The maintenance head mentioned that workers often leave after just a few months, and the ones who stay sometimes lack the skills needed to maintain the high standards expected in the industry. This cycle of hiring, training, and losing employees is not only costly but also disrupts the workflow and affects overall productivity.
This knowledge gap is more than just an inconvenience; it's a ticking time bomb. It disrupts operations, hinders innovation, and ultimately compromises the industry's future.
The Proposed Solution: Engaging Training Methods
To address this, we suggested a modern approach: short, engaging training videos akin to Insta Reels/ YouTube shorts. The idea is to create bite-sized, fun content from the company's existing media formats that resonates with the younger workforce, making it easier for them to learn and retain new skills. These videos can be tailored to cover essential maintenance tasks, safety protocols, and operational best practices, ensuring that even the most complex concepts are delivered in a digestible format.
The Skepticism: Fear of Upskilling Leading to Attrition
However, the maintenance head expressed a common concern: that investing in training might encourage employees to seek better opportunities elsewhere. This fear is understandable, especially in industries where retaining skilled workers is crucial to maintaining operational efficiency. Yet, this perspective overlooks the benefits of upskilling in fostering employee loyalty and reducing attrition.
The Counterpoint: Upskilling as a Retention Tool
Contrary to the maintenance head's concern, upskilling can actually help reduce attrition rates. When employees feel valued and see a clear path for their professional growth, they are more likely to stay with the company.
Engagement is key—when workers are engaged, they are more committed to their roles and less inclined to leave. This is especially true when the wage gap between current and potential future employers isn't too wide.
Moreover, training isn't just about enhancing skills; it's about building a culture of continuous learning and development. When employees see that their employer is investing in their growth, it fosters a sense of loyalty and belonging. They are more likely to view their job as a career, not just a temporary position.
A Bolt Approach
Bridging the knowledge gap between senior and junior workers is essential for any industry aiming to stay competitive. While the fear of upskilling leading to attrition is valid, the benefits of a well-trained, engaged workforce far outweigh the risks. By adopting modern training methods and fostering a culture of continuous learning, industries can not only retain their talent but also ensure that their workforce is equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
In the end, just as a bolt strengthens a structure, our Bolt CMMS will strengthen the industry by securely fastening together the knowledge and skills of different generations.
Curious to implement a seamless knowledge transfer between generations, the experienced and the young talent? Contact us for a free demo or for more industry specific solutions, email us at info@getbolt.in
On a factory floor where knowledge is the lifeblood, senior executives possess a wealth of experience, akin to an oracle with a toolbox filled with invaluable tricks. However, the younger generation is often left feeling like they are trying to assemble a complex puzzle without the manual.
A concerning disconnect has emerged between seasoned veterans and the rising generation of workers. This breakdown is evident in the alarming rate of employee turnover and the decline in the quality of new hires, a phenomenon experienced across various sectors.
It's as if the industry is a well-oiled machine with missing cogs.
The Challenge: High Turnover and Poor Quality Hires
The maintenance head mentioned that workers often leave after just a few months, and the ones who stay sometimes lack the skills needed to maintain the high standards expected in the industry. This cycle of hiring, training, and losing employees is not only costly but also disrupts the workflow and affects overall productivity.
This knowledge gap is more than just an inconvenience; it's a ticking time bomb. It disrupts operations, hinders innovation, and ultimately compromises the industry's future.
The Proposed Solution: Engaging Training Methods
To address this, we suggested a modern approach: short, engaging training videos akin to Insta Reels/ YouTube shorts. The idea is to create bite-sized, fun content from the company's existing media formats that resonates with the younger workforce, making it easier for them to learn and retain new skills. These videos can be tailored to cover essential maintenance tasks, safety protocols, and operational best practices, ensuring that even the most complex concepts are delivered in a digestible format.
The Skepticism: Fear of Upskilling Leading to Attrition
However, the maintenance head expressed a common concern: that investing in training might encourage employees to seek better opportunities elsewhere. This fear is understandable, especially in industries where retaining skilled workers is crucial to maintaining operational efficiency. Yet, this perspective overlooks the benefits of upskilling in fostering employee loyalty and reducing attrition.
The Counterpoint: Upskilling as a Retention Tool
Contrary to the maintenance head's concern, upskilling can actually help reduce attrition rates. When employees feel valued and see a clear path for their professional growth, they are more likely to stay with the company.
Engagement is key—when workers are engaged, they are more committed to their roles and less inclined to leave. This is especially true when the wage gap between current and potential future employers isn't too wide.
Moreover, training isn't just about enhancing skills; it's about building a culture of continuous learning and development. When employees see that their employer is investing in their growth, it fosters a sense of loyalty and belonging. They are more likely to view their job as a career, not just a temporary position.
A Bolt Approach
Bridging the knowledge gap between senior and junior workers is essential for any industry aiming to stay competitive. While the fear of upskilling leading to attrition is valid, the benefits of a well-trained, engaged workforce far outweigh the risks. By adopting modern training methods and fostering a culture of continuous learning, industries can not only retain their talent but also ensure that their workforce is equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
In the end, just as a bolt strengthens a structure, our Bolt CMMS will strengthen the industry by securely fastening together the knowledge and skills of different generations.
Curious to implement a seamless knowledge transfer between generations, the experienced and the young talent? Contact us for a free demo or for more industry specific solutions, email us at info@getbolt.in