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Employee Retention
Keeping Employees Takes More Than Being Nice
 Engaging
top-notch performers is not achieved through a “luck of the draw” process;
but rather it is the implementation of a solid hiring strategy.
With more companies realizing the “full” impact of their recruiting
decision, the days of hiring someone just because they answered an ad are
far behind us, replaced quite readily by a purposeful hiring process. As
such, companies are now spending more time and effort in sourcing the
right people, but are they taking the same steps to retain these
individuals?
When we think about position vacancy and the associated costs of
recruiting, training, and the time needed to get the new hire to full
performance; it only makes sense that companies spend the time and effort
to retain their people. Unfortunately many companies still rely heavily on
wages and benefits as the carrots of retention and are unaware that over
the past several years’ employment motivation has changed. As shown in a
recent study, by the HR consulting firm Compensation Resources Inc., money
was no longer the main motivator for individuals leaving their employment
but rather work environment, more responsibility and the chance to gain
new skills ranked much higher. Fair wages and benefits will always be a
foundation in keeping good employees but the building blocks for a
successful retention program is in how well companies know their people.
Interviewing employees to find out about their expectations and needs is
an important first step however taking a proactive approach that
encourages employee participation in activities conducive to the
organizations overall goals is crucial.
Building a strong program is an ongoing plan of action that when put into
place will have a great impact on a company’s bottom line.
Retention programs will be unique from one company to another with needs
and areas being weighted differently. The following are some suggested
building blocks.
Interactive Orientation
Look at orientation as an opportunity to embrace new employees while
involving current staff. Orientation should be viewed as a long-term
process lasting well beyond the first day or the first week of employment
and designed to build employee involvement and commitment. This means
making it interactive from the beginning and involving all parts of the
organization. An effective orientation tool for the critical introductory
time period is the use of a Buddy system. Having a Buddy to explain the
ropes and introduce the new hire to the company makes for a more efficient
integration.
Communication
Becoming part of the planning process, the ability to contribute ideas and
essentially being heard is the basis of communication. Employees need to
feel that they have a grasp of what is going on, where the company is
going and how they will be part of the process. Ensure that you have an
input – output resource that allows employees to express themselves and
receive appropriate feedback.
Developing Competency
Skill development is for everyone from shop floor through management.
Proactively assist employees in setting goals that link their development
to the organization's overall goals. When goals are set provide the
employee the opportunity and resources needed to carry them out for both
the short and long term. Make sure to reward and recognize employees based
on results achieved pertaining to learned skills. Recognition from their
employer confirms to the individual that their efforts are appreciated.
Learning from the Past
Even within the best work environments, employees do leave for a variety
of reasons. Consider the use of exit interviews as an opportunity to find
out what is going on within the operation and then use the data to make
positive changes. If recurring themes come up, verify them with existing
employees and look at ways to correct or improve the situation. Even
company initiated terminations should be studied carefully and analyzed
for trends. Do certain supervisors have a higher than normal percentage of
involuntary terminations? What are the reasons? How can these be avoided
in the future?
Having a system in place that will properly introduce a new hire to the
company, while identifying needs, encouraging participation, tracking
progress and providing timely feedback will go a long way in ensuring the
retention of a company’s workforce.
Remember keeping your employees takes more than just being nice.
The Lighter Side of Management
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FEATURED CANDIDATES
FC381
Account/Sales Manager,
A qualified Printing Technologist and Business Management
Graduate offers extensive Techno - commercial experience in Printing,
Packaging and Flexible Packaging business. Assertive Salesperson, combines
technical and commercial skills to achieve the best deal. An effective
communicator who leaves no scope for errors. I am a determined performer
and possess strong analytical and problem solving abilities. Leader and
initiator by nature, focused 24 X 7 and very passionate about achieving
goals. Possesses up-to-date IT and computer skills, have experience of
BaaN and friendly with Graphic software..
FC382
Production / Plant Manager,
My years of experience and training allows me to understand the
entire workings and goals of any firm, and in turn ensure the decisions I
make are always with the “big picture in mind” I have been a strong
proponent of Health and Safety and active on the committee. I believe in
well-trained personal and always strive to ensure that all employees have
the proper training in order to meet company goals and customer needs. I
strive on a fast pace environment, and enjoy diversification.
FC383
Bindery Operator,
I have a good knowledge of current bindery methods and ability
to operate all standard bindery equipment and high speed copiers. Working
for a year at the City of Mississauga bindery dept. I have gained
experience programming and operating a challenge 30” guillotine cutter and
setting up and operating a MBO high speed folder. I have performed hand
work in gathering, collating, assembling printed material in the desired
form using a variety of bindery techniques to complete finished work
according to customer requests. I have extensive knowledge of all aspects
of printing operations, including sales, production, and finishing. While
working for City of Toronto I have gained years of experience of customer
service which was recognized with an Award of Merit for 2005. As you’ll
see on my enclosed resume, I have the educational background and
professional experience to make a good addition to your team. In addition,
I am motivated and enthusiastic, and would appreciate the opportunity to
contribute to the bindery department success..
FC384
Docutech Operator,
I have over 5 years experience working within the Printing
Industry. My skills include the operations of Docutech, Digipath,
Micropress, Kodak Digi Source 9110 etc. and I have great knowledge of
Adobe programs.
FC385
Sales Service Rep/Coordinator,,
A Sales Service Rep/Coordinator with five years experience in
the SAP environment doing inter-company buying for customer orders,
including third party manufacturing sub-contractors in Canada and the US,
with a strong administrative background. Consistently demonstrates
initiative and works well under pressure. Manages several tasks
simultaneously and never misses deadlines. Key strengths include
exceptional organizational skills, an orientation to details, the ability
to work collaboratively with others, and strong computer skills in SAP
R/3, Excel, Word and Lotus Notes, with working knowledge of PowerPoint.
FC386
Production Supervisor - Flexible Packaging,
Production Supervisor I have over 18 years experience as a
Production Supervisor.I worked for a manufacturer of plastic flexible
packaging for the food industry. I was responsible for the supervision of
the extrusion, press and converting areas. I handled all aspects of
production,safety,quality and maintenance in the plant. I've been on and
supported many continuous improvement programs. Also various other
programs such as STOP, sanitation, respirator training ,5S, etc. I pride
myself as a hard working hands-on supervisor with excellent communication
and people skills.
FC387
Production Supervisor - Commercial Print,
I have had a very successful career in the packaging and
commercial print industry. My career spans over thirty years with 20 years
in managerial roles. I have excellent people skills with an approach that
quickly builds a team environment allowing smooth integration of new
systems. Skills include a working knowledge of major quality and
continuous improvement systems including, ISO, Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and
Kaizen and I am fully trained in AIB as well as health and safety. I have
knowledge of how to effectively perform within a union environment and
insight into dealing with the union. I am currently located in London
Ontario but I am willing to travel for the right opportunity.
FC388
Account Manager
I have spent over 23 years in the flexible packaging industry,
working my way up from the shop floor. I have exceptional people skills
and a thorough knowledge of Flexo and Gravure printing. My experience as a
Union Steward and on the Locals executive for over a dozen years gives me
insight as to handling union and non union shops. I like to work in a team
environment and promote that kind of mind set in working towards a common
goal. I have an extensive background in Health and Safety as well as
Labour Relations. I pride myself on my people skills, and offer an overall
special kind of skill set.
FC389
Customer Service - Corrugated,
Some of my key strengths include: * Broad based knowledge of
Artios CAD Packaging Software. * Design of Flatbed Steel Rule Dies *
Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills with the
experience required to handle demanding schedules and rigid deadlines. * A
dedicated and loyal results oriented designer with innovative and
out-of-the-box thinking. * Excellent time and management skills * Package
development in consumer goods * Excellent understand of design/printing
and pre-press methods
FC3810
Sales Executive,
With an
exceptional background in the printing and packaging industry I am a
dynamic and experienced Sales Executive with a great track record of
expanding existing opportunities while aggressively developing new
business. Using a consulting approach I am able to collaborate with the
client creating an air of true partnership. I have excellent presentation
skills and I am comfortable in one on one or large group presentation. As
a professional I possess strong time management skills with the ability to
manage multiple projects in an efficient and effective manner, solid
analytical abilities and creative problem resolution expertise. My
background is in the label, litho, and flexographic printing fields. I am
a highly motivated individual who achieves results through realistic
business planning and intelligent business plan execution. I am looking to
bring my skills to an established company that is looking to jumpstart
their sales growth.
FC3811
Account Manager,,
I possess seventeen years of international account management
and Mac operator experience in the prepress and artwork production
industries. My skills and experience that I have developed include:
extensive customer service experience, proven liaison skills in dealing
with customers, printers and stakeholders on a global basis,
administrative proficiencies which include preparation of working tickets
for production and invoicing, PC skills including Word, Excel and Outlook,
Mac skills utilising Adobe Illustrator and Acrobat, overseeing production
and delivery of materials for printing and the setting up of a new studio.
FC3812
Plant Supervisor,
While my expertise is in Commercial Lithography, I have spent
quite a large amount of time working in Label and Folding Carton
production. My outgoing attitude, ability to foster great employee
relations, and intuitive, problem solving nature, lend themselves to
managing in our dynamic industry. I have moved quickly in my career by
gaining the respect of my superiors, co-workers and subordinates. Working
with unions, various quality and productivity philosophies has given me a
greater understanding of what works in our industry, but more importantly
that it is a dynamic industry and that every organization is unique.
For more information contact us at:
phone: (905) 435-0036 e-mail:
larry_andrus@meridiansearch.ca
See the
New Candidate Section Below for more Great Profiles
View all Candidates on the Meridian Website
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To
enquire about candidates in this newsletter you may use any of the
following methods:
Call us
directly at (905) 435-0036
Hot New
Candidates!!
Customer Service/Production Coordinator – EN6701 –
I am a highly motivated and energetic professional with over 15 years of
customer service and administrative experience. Utilizing AS400, SAP, and
Microsoft office I can effectively perform all duties of the CSR position
including conferring with customers on graphic changes and forecasting
inventory using the companies Min/Max Program. Skilled in all areas of the
flexible packaging process along with excellent people and customer
service skills I would be a valuable asset to any company looking to
bolster their customer service department.
Sales Representative/Manager – EN6702 –
I am a sales professional with solid management experience and a respect
for both the people he works with and the client he gets paid by. I offer
a record of success in developing and maintaining business contacts and
sales as well as managing people to attain company goals and standards
while at the same time allowing individual personalities to develop. The
ability to establish and maintain brand loyalty with a company and elevate
corporate presence and image by motivating the people around me to higher
professional levels and accomplishments. My goal is to get increased sales
as a representative or a manager within an organization that is effectual,
profitable, and client oriented.
Plant Manager – EN6703 – A seasoned Plant
Operations and Packaging Manager with extensive experience in managing a
diverse multi level work force, in both union and non-union settings. A
decisive leader, skilled at developing and enhancing business unit
performance and accountability while building and directing high
performance teams. Proven ability to initiate, implement and manage
processes that improve operational effectiveness and contribute to bottom
line results. A strong work ethic and effective communication skills
complemented by a unique breadth of experience and that includes human
resource management.
Print Production/Accounting – EN6704 – As a
professional with several years in the Printing industry I have
successfully mastered many types of duties. In addition to possessing
strong administration and computer skills, I enjoy performing well under
pressure and meeting tight deadlines. I need minimum supervision and
interact well with associates and clients in a pleasant and professional
manner. Along with being dedicated and reliable, I posses excellent
organizational and interpersonal skills. I am very adaptable to change and
with my charismatic and energetic personality this makes me a very honest
and dedicated employee to my bosses and co-workers. Being that I am very
assertive and caring this makes me a very versatile and determined person.
I would very much appreciate an opportunity to discuss how your company
may successfully utilize my knowledge and experience.
Packaging Technologist – EN6705 – I am an energetic and
enthusiastic accredited packaging technologist. My background includes a
three-year packaging technology program, experience in consumer packaging
engineering and high-end packaging design (corrugated and paperboard). I
offer exceptional understanding of design, an understanding of marketing,
purchasing, technological requirements and a proven record of major cost
savings. Key things I would like to demonstrate to you are; innovative
design oriented skills (award winning), a solid background in packaging
technology and sourcing with an understanding of a range of materials,
skills in the use of several industry specific CAD systems, as well as, a
range of industry software, motivation to further the companies objectives
and a strong ability to communicate my ideas both internally and
externally.
Flexible Packaging Sales – EN6706 – With a Business
Marketing degree and various other career related courses this mans
educational background strongly complements an excellent 19 year career in
the area of flexible packaging sales and business development. This
candidate is highly motivated and accountable. His pleasant demeanor and
professional attitude allows him to easily provide a "foot in the door"
for new targeted business as well as executing strong internal leadership
amongst his sales and support teams. His in-depth knowledge of flexible
packaging is key in understanding client needs while giving him the
ability to analyze potential problems and provide effective, innovative
solutions. This candidate is a dedicated, knowledgeable individual with a
very stable career in the flexible packaging industry and would be a great
addition to any sales team of a growth oriented company.
Production Supervisor – EN6707 – This candidate has a
resume that depicts a very successful career in the packaging industry
with a primary focus in the boxboard industry. This mans career spans over
twenty five years with sixteen in managerial roles. He has excellent
people skills with an approach that quickly builds a team environment
allowing smooth integration of new systems. His skills include a complete
working knowledge of major quality and continuous improvement systems
including, ISO, SMED, Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and Kaizen and is fully
trained in AIB as well as health and safety. This candidate has previously
held positions in the union consisting of Acting President, Acting Vice
President and Secretary. These experiences have given this individual
exceptional knowledge of how to effectively perform within a union
environment and insight into dealing with the union. He is located in the
Eastern GTA but is willing to travel for the right opportunity.
Packaging Supervisor – EN6708 – This candidate is an
energetic young lady who describes herself as a Process Improvement
Specialist with well defined skills and experience developed through her
19 years of progressive advancement within the pharmaceutical and
household product industries. Her diverse background in business and
production processes, allows for innovative and effective problem solving,
sound risk taking initiatives and strong business strategy support. With
knowledge in GMP, SOP and MRP/MPS systems she is proficient in maximizing
efficiencies, controlling costs, and empowering workforces. This is a
strong individual with great potential. She is currently in the Eastern
GTA and this is her location preference, however she is open to relocation
for the right opportunity.
Customer Service Representative – Litho – Digital Print – EN6709 –
This young lady has an excellent educational background that includes a
B.A. Technology majoring in Graphics Communication and an impressive
resume that depicts an extensive range of skills and abilities. This
candidate has developed a wide knowledge of the lithographic, digital and
screen printing processes as well as the application of these processes on
a variety of substrates. She has an ability to quickly understand the
customers’ needs and works with both internal resources and the customer
to provide prompt factual feedback while affording solutions to potential
problems. She is an energetic and organized individual with proven
planning skills who can effectively manage multiple projects independently
or within a team environment. This individual would be looking for an
opportunity in/or west of the Mississauga area.
Bilingual Junior Sales Representative – Flexible Packaging – EN6710 –
With French as a first language and no discernible accent when speaking
English this candidate is exceptionally fluent in both. She is currently
performing in a Senior CSR/Inside Sales role with complete sales
responsibility into the Quebec market. Her educational background includes
a B.A. in Psychology from York University and Computer Programming from
Laurentian University along with industry related continuous education
courses. Among her many assets are excellent communication skills that
allow her to effectively build and maintain solid business relationships
with upper management and account clientele. Well versed in flexible
packaging she is looking for an opportunity that would lead her into a
full-time outside sales position. This is an intelligent, well-spoken and
personable young lady with great potential in becoming a sales
“superstar”.
Production Supervisor/Manager – Flexible Packaging – EN6711 –
This candidate has an excellent working knowledge of the entire flexible
packaging operation including flexo printing, extrusion, lamination,
slitting and bag making. This individual is a real personable manager who
has had a very stable career of 24 years with the same company. During his
tenure he has championed the implementation of 5S, Lean Manufacturing and
various team projects that have included safety, quality and production
initiatives. He is currently the management representative of his
companies’ quality system and has chaired quality system improvement
meetings. He describes himself as a very hands-on manager that will not
take away the operators tools to use his self but rather will work with
his operators to troubleshoot and ensure their understanding of the
mechanics and operations of their machinery. This individual is looking to
further his career and looking for a new opportunity to help a company in
need of strong floor management in both systems and personnel. He has an
impressive educational background that he has continuously built upon over
the past 20 years.
C.I. Flexo Press Operator – EN6712 –
This candidate has over 17 years experience in the print industry with the
past 11 years operating C.I. presses. He describes himself as a loyal and
dedicated individual, organized and conscientious with excellent
communication skills that assist him in effectively meeting production
quotas and deadlines. His experience includes the running of 4 & 6 Colour
Kidder Presses, an 8 colour PCMC flexographic press and excellent working
knowledge of the X-rite Colour Matching System and Novaflow Ink Dispensing
System. When speaking with this candidate he exudes a genuine sense of
pride in his abilities and his work.
Press Operator - Offset – EN6713 –
This offset press operator has over 19 years experience in the printing
industry with an ability to effectively work in pressure situations to
meet tight deadlines. This candidate’s resume boasts a list of
achievements and an extensive list of machine experience including working
knowledge of Mitsubishi, Komori, KBA, Rolland, Hiedelberg and Meihle wide
web presses. This man has excellent computer skills with solid pre-press
experience.
Payroll Administrator/HR Generalist – EN6714 –
With over 8 successful years administering payroll and benefits for a
company of 350+ employees (Hourly & Salary) this individual has gained
exceptional experience in all aspects of payroll. This young lady is well
organized and resourceful with a wide variety of skill areas that include
knowledge of payroll legislation, payroll accounting, employee benefit
plan, and computer-related applications and systems skills. Her academic
background includes many achievements in accounting and system related
courses and she describes herself as enthusiastic and dedicated with a
keen sense of organization and a high degree of personal integrity. Her
practical background has gained her working exposure to Human Resources
and she would like to further develop her career to include more in this
area as well as grow her opportunities in the areas of payroll and office
administration. A very pleasant, well-presented candidate who brings great
enthusiasm and experience to the table.
Purchasing – Flexible Packaging – EN6715 –
This growth
oriented individual has an excellent knowledge of Flexible Packaging and
all associated materials. She has a very strong personality blended with
good people skills that allow her to work closely in a team environment
while being firm and fair when dealing with suppliers. She works very
closely with the technical department re: developmental films and their
end uses. This candidate is quite adept at the sourcing of materials,
creating and placing purchase orders, negotiating prices, payment terms
and rebate programs, implementing and maintaining supplier performances
programs, initiating in-house trials for supplier qualification and
maintaining the control of inventory levels. A very good candidate with
plenty of up-side.
Slitter Operator –
Films & Paper – EN6716
– This young man has over 8 years experience in the slitter operation. He
has performed on a variety of machines setting-up and running many
different substrates. He also has experience as a cutter operator
(guillotine) and is efficient in warehouse order picking, shipping and
material handling. This candidate is available for steady shifts or full
rotation.
For a list of other qualified candidates
Visit the Employers section on our website at:
www.meridiansearch.ca
Or contact us by:
phone: (905) 435-0036
e-mail:
info@meridiansearch.ca
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