Hiring for practical, hands-on roles—whether in production, warehousing, construction, transport, or service—often comes with its own set of challenges. To succeed, businesses must tailor their recruitment strategies to reach the right people and retain them over time. Here's how to do it effectively.
Understanding the target group is essential. Workers in skilled trades and vocational roles typically prioritize stability, decent working conditions, competitive pay, development opportunities, and a respectful workplace. By recognizing what motivates these candidates, employers can better shape their messaging and offerings. Highlight opportunities for permanent employment and long-term stability, be transparent about working hours and conditions, and focus on local recruitment—many applicants prefer jobs close to home.
The application process should be simple and mobile-friendly. Candidates in these roles often want quick, easy ways to apply. Streamline the experience with mobile applications that avoid lengthy forms, use clear and practical job descriptions, send automated updates to keep applicants informed, and pre-screen candidates with digital tools. Reducing friction during this process prevents strong candidates from dropping off prematurely.
To reach these candidates, advertising in the right places is crucial. Traditional platforms like LinkedIn may not be effective for these roles. Instead, focus on local job sites like Platsbanken and Indeed, industry-specific platforms, Facebook groups, vocational schools, and even physical noticeboards in shops, gyms, or hardware stores. These often work surprisingly well for specific trades.
Your employer brand still matters in practical roles. Candidates value a safe and stable work environment, good leadership, internal career opportunities, and respect for their skills. Strengthen your brand by showcasing your commitment to workplace safety and development, highlighting real employee success stories, and letting current staff share their own experiences.
Be open about pay and conditions. Compensation is a key driver in these roles, so include salary ranges in your ads when possible and highlight benefits such as insurance, pensions, workwear, and tool allowances. Referral and hiring bonuses often work well too and can help tap into employee networks.
Finally, retaining skilled workers is just as important as attracting them. Promote loyalty by offering skills training, certifications, and opportunities to expand competencies. Provide regular feedback and recognition—often highly appreciated in these roles—and maintain open communication between supervisors and staff. Create spaces for dialogue and workplace improvements to show employees that their voices matter.
Interested in how modern recruitment tools can enhance your process and help you hire effectively for skilled trade roles? Get in touch—we’d love to show you how it works in practice.
