Do we really need the unicorn?

The Packaging Paradigm Podcast

In this episode of the Packaging Paradigm Podcast, Dominic Crosson and Ian Shiemke discuss the challenges of finding the right talent in the packaging industry, often referred to as 'unicorns.' They explore the importance of understanding organizational needs, defining qualifications, and the significance of internal alignment in the hiring process. The conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility in qualifications and offerings, as well as the value of industry expertise in recruitment. The episode provides actionable insights for companies looking to enhance their hiring strategies and successfully navigate the talent acquisition landscape. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of leveraging connections and resources in hiring, the need for flexibility in salary and qualifications, and the significance of setting clear expectations for new hires. They emphasize the role of communication in aligning expectations and performance metrics, addressing high attrition rates, and creating a supportive onboarding process. The conversation also highlights the necessity of having decisive leadership in the hiring process and building a strong company culture to retain talent.

Takeaways

• The packaging industry faces challenges in finding the right talent, often referred to as 'unicorns.'
• Understanding organizational needs is crucial before searching for a candidate.
• A unicorn is defined as someone with a very specific skill set and experience.
• Companies should be open to candidates from adjacent industries.
• Every day a position remains unfilled impacts the organization financially.
• Defining, organizing, and prioritizing qualifications is essential for successful hiring.
• Internal alignment among decision-makers leads to a smoother recruitment process.
• Flexibility in qualifications and offerings is key to attracting top talent.
• Transparency and communication with recruitment partners enhance the hiring process.
• The packaging industry is interconnected, making relationships vital for recruitment. Leverage all available connections and resources for hiring.
• Flexibility in salary and qualifications can attract better talent.
• Setting clear expectations is crucial for new hires' success.
• Regular communication helps align expectations and performance metrics.
• High attrition rates may indicate internal issues that need addressing.
• A supportive onboarding process is essential for new hires.
• Decision-makers should be clear and decisive in the hiring process.
• Company culture plays a significant role in employee retention.
• Utilizing technology can enhance recruitment efforts.
• Engaging in open conversations can lead to better hiring outcomes.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Packaging Paradigm Podcast

01:52 Defining the Unicorn: Skills and Experience

03:45 The Importance of Open-Mindedness in Hiring

05:46 Analyzing Organizational Needs and Pain Points

09:34 Assembling the Leadership Team for Recruitment

10:32 Defining Qualifications: Hard and Soft Skills

13:01 The Role of Internal Alignment in Hiring

16:19 Flexibility in Qualifications and Offerings

19:50 Transparency and Communication in Recruitment

23:10 Conclusion: The Importance of Industry Expertise

24:38 Leveraging Connections and Resources

25:33 Flexibility in Hiring and Salary Adjustments

27:15 Understanding Market Dynamics and Talent Acquisition

30:19 Setting Expectations for New Hires

32:35 The Importance of Clear Communication

34:20 Aligning Expectations and Performance Metrics

37:29 Addressing High Attrition Rates

40:39 Creating a Supportive Onboarding Process

42:32 The Role of Decision-Makers in Hiring

45:37 Building a Strong Company Culture

https://sparkpackaginginc.com/