International Trade Jobs Increase in Portland: What Does This Mean For Retention and Recruiting?

By Jezabel Southard

Posted on December 5, 2013

Booming international trade is creating a spike in new jobs in Portland, Oregon. Opportunities increase for job seekers as a result, but employers will face stiff competition for top talent. What does this opportunity mean to Portland and your business?

Great news for Portland Harbor.

International trade-related business created nearly half a million jobs in Oregon last year in companies that exported more than sixteen billion in goods. Much of this trade goes through the Portland Harbor where typical workers earn substantially more than average wages.

Great news for job seekers.

Job growth includes opportunities at all skill levels including cargo handlers, transportation supervisors, water vessel operators, crane operators, iron and steel workers. This development is great for job-seekers and for Oregon’s tax base, but how can you be assured of getting the most qualified applicants for your job openings?

1. Advertise widely.

Cast a wide net to uncover potential candidates. Whether your website includes an online job board where you can post new positions on your site or you need to use a third party site, it’s essential that  jobseekers know what jobs are available and what makes your company the most desirable place to work.

2. Offer competitive compensation.

Top talent comes at a premium. Be sure that you are realistic about how much you need to pay to attract the best candidates. Benchmark your compensation model against similar local companies to be sure your payscale and benefit offerings are not knocking you out of consideration.

3. Network – even within the company.

When upswings in trade create a large labor demand, there may not be enough active job seekers to fill increased requirements. Offer incentives to current employees who refer their friends or scour your database to find candidates with the skill sets you need. Retention is improved when current employees “selling” the opportunities to their friends are reminded of the benefits of working there.

4. Partner with a staffing agency.

Experts like TERRA Staffing Group know the local market and where to find the best candidates. They have extensive databases of candidates and can actively recruit passive candidates to suit your specific requirements.

If you have trouble finding just the right fit permanent employee or if you need temporary help for a temporary surge in demand, TERRA can help you find the help you need for as long as you need them.

Put TERRA Staffing to work for you today!

Categories: Employee Engagement Ideas, HR and Management Advice

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