Struggling with a staff shortage?
Many businesses today are facing a reduced workforce for a whole host of reasons. Some might find that it’s down to wider socio-economic issues like reductions in freedom of movement since Brexit, or a smaller workforce post-COVID. Equally, often it’ll be a short-term illness or a couple of employees moving on to pastures new that’ll trigger a staffing crisis.
Regardless of the cause, we know how tough it can be to handle a staff shortage. Fear not, here’s a seven-point plan that should keep you covered.
1. Boost morale, boost results
Your existing team deserves some extra love during a staff shortage. Show them you care by acknowledging their hard work and dedication. Provide them with the support and resources they need to manage their workload effectively. Offer training and development opportunities to boost their skills and job satisfaction. When you take care of your team, they’ll take care of business.
It’s not just you finding staff shortages painful. Small investments in your staff’s mental health support, or ensuring that they maintain a work-life balance, don’t go unnoticed. It’ll show in the quality of their work, and their loyalty to your business.
2. Get a short-term power boost
Need a quicker fix? Look no further than temporary staffing solutions. Freelancers and temporary workers can be real game-changers when crunch time comes around. Platforms like YoungOnes offer flexible staffing options, allowing you to find skilled and available freelancers in a flash. Preventing strain on your workers also keeps them from burning out, and keeps them engaged.
Want to learn more about temporary staffing? Book a demo and one of our team will get back to you.
3. Prioritise and delegate
First things first, prioritise your tasks and delegate with finesse. Identify the critical items that need immediate attention and assign them to your available team members based on who has the right skills and capacity. Things might feel stressful, but have no fear – you and your team have got this.
4. Optimise and beat the staff shortage blues
Tough times often bring out the best in us. Take a good look at your processes, and trim the fat. Wave goodbye to redundant tasks and time-wasters, and hello to supercharged efficiency. Look for opportunities to streamline tasks like a boss. You’ll save time and resources during this challenging time.
5. Keep Your Team in the Loop
Communication is key, especially during a staff shortage. Keep your team in the loop with crystal-clear transparency. Share updates on the situation and show them what you’re doing to address it. And be honest with what you need from them. If you’re hiring temporary staff, you’ll need help training them.
6. Take a look at your recruitment
Struggling to hire? Take a look at recruitment strategies, succession planning, and talent retention initiatives. Is there a referral fee for staff? That might keep your current staff happy, and help you hire. It’s all about building a workforce for the long haul.
Find out more about how YoungOnes can help you plan ahead and get back up for when demand is high.
7. Seek expert advice
None of these helping? Then it might be time to bring in the experts. Managing a staff shortage can be challenging, and it’s okay to ask for help. Consult with HR professionals or industry experts for valuable insights and guidance. Remember, you’re not in this alone, and there are resources available to support you in overcoming this challenge.
Need help navigating a staff shortage? We’ve got your back. Create an account on YoungOnes for free and access thousands of freelancers, whenever you need.
Questions? Fire away
Reach out to Carly by sending an email or by requesting a call back.
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