Let’s be real. Hiring in the shared services sector isn’t just about filling a seat.
It can feel like navigating a minefield. You might be facing high turnover, skills shortages,
or simply the challenge of finding candidates who align with your company culture.
I get it; this journey can be overwhelming.
After 20 years in the shared services arena, having led multiple large-scale projects,
I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright confusing.
Today, I want to break down the top five hiring challenges we face in the shared services sector
and how to tackle them head-on.
1. Talent Shortages: Where Have All the Good Candidates Gone?
It’s a wild market out there.
Finding qualified candidates can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
The demand far exceeds the supply, especially when it comes to specialized skills in finance,
compliance, and technology.
Here’s what I’ve found helpful:
- Broaden Your Search: Don’t limit yourself to local talent.
Remote work is here to stay and can open up a treasure trove of candidates. - Build a Talent Pipeline: Develop relationships with universities and training programs
that focus on operational excellence. Get a head start by identifying future talent. - Internal Promotions: Often, the best candidates are already in-house.
Invest in training and upskilling current employees.
2. Cultural Fit: Skills vs. Values
Skills are crucial—but what about cultural fit?
Hiring someone who doesn’t resonate with your company values can lead to friction and dissatisfaction.
Here’s the kicker: it’s hard to measure culture.
To ensure a good fit:
- Prioritize Values in Interviews: Ask candidates direct questions about their values
and how they align with your company’s mission. - Involve Team Members: Include your team in the interview process.
They can provide insights on whether a candidate meshes well.
3. High Turnover Rates: Why Can’t We Keep Good People?
You’ve hired great people, but they don’t stick around.
High turnover rates can drain your resources and morale.
So, what’s the deal? Often, it boils down to unrealistic expectations or lack of growth opportunities.
Consider these strategies:
- Transparent Communication: Set clear expectations during the onboarding process.
Be honest about roles, responsibilities, and growth paths. - Career Development: Foster an environment where employees feel they can grow.
Offer training, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement.
4. Skills Gaps: Bridging the Knowledge Divide
Technology moves fast.
The skills needed today might differ dramatically from those needed in a year.
It’s easy to find candidates on paper, but ensuring they have up-to-date skills is a whole other story.
To bridge that gap:
- Invest in Continuous Learning: Provide resources for employees to enhance their skills.
Online courses, workshops, and certifications can go a long way. - Regular Assessments: Implement a process for regular skills assessments to identify gaps
and areas for improvement.
5. Balancing Efficiency with Personal Touch
In the rush to streamline hiring processes, we often overlook a critical element: the human touch.
Automated applications and digital interviews can quickly become impersonal.
Candidates want to feel valued, not just like another number in a queue.
Here’s how you can keep things personal:
- Personalized Communication: Reach out with personalized messages—not generic emails.
Show candidates that you care. - Engagement Throughout the Process: Keep candidates informed through every stage.
Update them on their application status and next steps.
Conclusion: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Tackling these hiring challenges in shared services is no small feat.
Yet, each hurdle comes with an opportunity.
By embracing a proactive approach, prioritizing culture, investing in learning, and maintaining a personal touch,
you can build a team that not only meets today’s needs but is also equipped for future challenges.
Remember, the key to a successful shared services transformation lies in your people.
Let’s leverage these strategies together to create a thriving workplace.
For more insights, tips, and expert perspectives on the shared services landscape,
be sure to check out THEGBSEDGE.
With a wealth of resources available, including articles on strategy leadership
and technology innovation,
you won’t want to miss out.
