Rachel Bunn, director of commercial, projects and community at East Coast College, discusses the importance of thinking differently to attract the best workforce. 

Doing things differently can have a positive impact on skills and recruitment. So often you hear that companies are struggling to recruit new staff, with applicants often not meeting the required entry level.

Sadly, we are now at a critical point where the recruitment landscape has changed and we need to consider how to attract new entrants that may require a longer journey to get the desired mix of skills and experience.

Thinking differently

To tackle the current skills gap, we need fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. Encouraging creative thinking and challenging conventional norms can lead to effective solutions.

Inspiring career choices

Collaboration between educational institutions, industry and sector bodies is essential. We must inspire students early on by showcasing the exciting possibilities in various fields. This includes highlighting the impact of technology, sustainability and social responsibility.

There is great work within the East of England Energy Group (EEEGR), which provides careers and skills events with a focus on employer engagement. This makes a real difference in delivery but also ensures the experience is retained by young people.

Curriculum design and content

Regular feedback from employers ensures that educational programmes align with real-world needs. Practical skills, soft skills and adaptability should be emphasised.

East Coast College’s recent Engineering Skills Bootcamp highlighted that a co-designed curriculum can indeed support recruitment and provide opportunities for adults to retrain.

Educational establishments always welcome employer engagement activities, ranging from masterclasses, supported site visits and work experience to opportunities or mentoring.

Eastern Daily Press: Rachel Bunn, director of commercial, projects and community at East Coast CollegeRachel Bunn, director of commercial, projects and community at East Coast College (Image: East Coast College)

Inclusive recruitment strategies

Diversity and inclusion are crucial. Companies should actively seek talent from diverse backgrounds, cultures and abilities.

Removing biases from recruitment processes and promoting equal opportunities are vital steps in ensuring that talent can outshine possible barriers.

College students and school leavers are a critical part of the future workforce, but we should not forget the wealth of skilled and untapped individuals that sit outside the traditional skills pipelines.

These can include adult retrainers, supportive internships and those working in a different sector with transferable skills.

Supporting new recruits

Onboarding matters! Companies should provide mentorship, clear expectations and a supportive environment for new hires.

Effective training programmes help new employees integrate seamlessly into the organisation.

Retention and longevity

Retaining talent is equally important. Ongoing training, skills development and growth opportunities keep employees engaged. Companies should invest in their workforce, nurturing a homegrown talent pool.

So, the question to ask yourself and your company is: Are you brave enough to break the norm and do different in 2024?

For more information visit eastcoast.ac.uk