In the current business landscape, talent attraction has become increasingly challenging as employers navigate a complex and rapidly evolving job market. With remote work models gradually declining and more companies returning to in-office or hybrid setups, competition for top talent remains intense, now with a renewed focus on local and regional candidates. Moreover, candidates are more discerning, prioritizing factors like company culture, work-life balance, and opportunities for growth over traditional perks. The rise of the gig economy and a shift in workforce expectations have also led many skilled professionals to seek flexible, non-traditional roles, further complicating recruitment efforts. To attract and retain top talent, employers must offer more than just competitive salaries; they need to demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability and employee well-being.
Human resource professionals are increasingly finding themselves at the forefront of navigating this complex landscape of recruitment trends and needs. As the job market becomes more dynamic, HR teams must adapt to shifting candidate expectations, including demands for flexibility, meaningful work, and a strong organizational culture. Additionally, HR professionals are tasked with addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, ensuring that recruitment strategies align with these values. Balancing the need for speed in filling positions with the importance of making quality, long-term hires require HR professionals to be both strategic and agile, continuously updating their approaches to meet the evolving needs of the workforce and the business.
As the Sanford Area Growth Alliance (SAGA) works to support existing employers and build opportunities for the community with new employers, the need for workforce supply and retention is well understood. To assist with the critical workforce pipeline, SAGA has developed a new program geared toward our existing company HR partners. This program, called “The Human Factor,” focuses on four key areas to benefit our companies and their workforce needs: Human Factor Trends, Link to the Pipeline, Best Practices Tour, and Community Engagement. Through these sessions, HR representatives from our employers will be connected to local schools and universities, professionals from workforce development organizations, share best practices with other local employers, and engage their workforce with volunteer and community support opportunities.
Astellas Gene Therapy, located in Central Carolina Enterprise Park, will host SAGA’s “Best Practices” tour. We look forward to touring the site and sharing professional experiences in safety programs and employee recognition activities. The importance of fostering a safe and content workforce has never been more critical for employers, especially considering recent trends. As organizations increasingly recognize the direct link between a positive work environment and productivity, they are investing more in safety measures, mental health resources, and flexible work arrangements. A secure and satisfied workforce is more likely to be engaged, motivated, and loyal, which in turn reduces turnover rates and enhances overall organizational performance. Furthermore, in a competitive labor market, a company’s reputation for prioritizing employee well-being can be a key differentiator, attracting top talent and ensuring long-term sustainability. Clearly, the needs of employees have changed, and even in our technology-driven processes, humans are still key to any company’s workforce foundation. The human factor must be a focus for employers to achieve success and retain employees.
Crystal Gaddy, Business Retention and Expansion Manager