Because the economy has been good for the last few years, qualified employees have been snatched away by companies willing to give an extra incentive -- be it monetary or other. In addition, trustworthy workers usually turn into entrepreneurs of their own, especially when the economic climate is favorable.

So does a small sign shop have a chance at hiring adequate assistance? Are there some unexplored sources to tap into? What are some alternatives to managing that workforce crunch? Explore ideas from the obvious to the innovative. You never know where you’ll find the right solution for your business.

1.2 ~ Thoroughly Innovative and Utterly Obvious Ideas

You’ve probably thought of this utterly obvious solution – apprentice programs through vocational schools, universities, and colleges. But, have you pursued it? Why haven’t you? Students are willing to work part-time after school, evenings, weekends and usually any time your other employees don’t want to. Work/study programs with technical or trade schools may even be the perfect source for a future partner. Contact the school placement office for details.

Would homemakers or mothers wanting to rejoin the workforce be able to assist you? Some may have office skills, design capabilities and other talents just waiting to be applied. Since many enjoy working when their children are in school, these potential employees could fill in most of the day and still be home early. You benefit by getting an "almost full-time" employee at a "little more than part-time" price.

With years of experience in handling people, retirees can make excellent sales professionals. Studies have shown that more mature individuals show more concern for customers and display knowledge regarding how to do things for which there are no written instructions. Exactly what any sign business needs! Why not contact senior associations in your area?

Use an employment agency to lease qualified professionals or bright temporary help. Besides getting your business through the squeeze, the temps may even end up staying on. Of course, you’ll have to pay a fee to the agency for screening and locating them for you.

Ask current employees for skilled referrals. Offer a bonus when those referrals result in a placement. That’ll get them thinking! Or, find out from vendors whether they know of anyone that’s looking for a permanent position. Sales reps have a large network and can also assist you in getting the word out.

Outsource those pressing tasks! Consult the trade journals to see what companies offer wholesale vinyl lettering, complete sandblasted signs, carved signs, custom printed plastic signs, and color printed vinyl graphics. Why slave over repetitive production, weeding tiny letters or intricate details when a simple phone call subcontracts the drudgery? Just add a reasonable markup to cover the cost of the outsourcing.

Sometimes a solution can be so obvious it’s often overlooked. Have you thought of paying overtime to existing employees? Even if it’s only temporary, your current crew may be able to use the extra income. What’s more, the supplementary expenditure may be nothing compared to the expense of training new help.

And if you can’t beat ‘em … join ‘em! Strategic alliances are becoming a way of life in most industries and the sign industry is no exception. Even small sign shops can benefit from these associations. Just think -- your competition may very well become your next "partner." Could you join forces to provide your community with a full range of sign products and services? With your coalition, could you share a workforce to fulfill both of your objectives? An innovative idea!

So let the good times roll and learn how to take advantage of the economic upswing. Start managing that workforce crunch by hiring the needed help from some usual and not-so-usual places. And remember to offer that extra incentive that’ll nab and retain qualified assistance. Keep your business booming along with the economy!

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