255. Why Contractors Are Losing the War for Talent - Aaron Witt
Contractor Evolution
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What if we told you that the skilled labor shortage is your fault?
Yes, there’s demographic challenges. Yes, the economy plays a role.
But our industry has REALLY missed the mark on attracting the next generation.
Today’s guest is the one and only Aaron Witt, founder of BuildWitt and host of the Dirt Talk podcast.
He’s on a mission to empower the next generation of tradespeople and bridge the gap between the old guard and the next wave of talent.
In this episode you’ll learn:
- Why the construction industry is partially at fault for the lack of new skilled laborers
- The employer branding mistakes you’re definitely making, and what to do instead
- And what different generations owe each other to solve the workforce crisis
If you care about the future of your team, your business, and the trades as a whole — this one’s for you.
Check out Aaron's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AaronWitt
More episodes on employer branding and recruiting the next generation of skilled laborers:
How to Build a Hiring Funnel (EP 220): https://youtu.be/ITtfUjjD5JI
How to Attract Reliable Staff in a Labor Shortage (EP 208): https://youtu.be/bjdnIQJxAMk
Leadership Beyond The Hammer (EP 215): https://youtu.be/DlJhlx65UIs
00:00-Intro
01:15-Aaron Witt's Background and Founding of BuildWit
04:20-The Importance of Brand in the Construction Industry
08:16-Why Contractors Struggle to Attract Young Talent
14:31-How Best-in-Class Contractors Hire Smarter
20:11-The Role of Authentic Storytelling
31:52-Employer Branding for the Next Generation of Contractors
40:28-Private Equity, Capitalism, and the State of Infrastructure
48:43-Responsibilities of Both Generations in Solving the Labor Crisis
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