Employee retention is critical to the success of any company, and this is especially true in the distribution industry where high turnover rates can significantly impact efficiency, productivity, and the bottom line. Employee retention is particularly challenging in warehouse environments where repetitive tasks, high physical demands, and demanding schedules can quickly lead to employee burnout.
Fortunately, there are several ways to obtain satisfied employees in a warehouse environment. Investing in cloud technology, such as Infor CloudSuite Distribution (CSD), handheld devices, and warehouse automation, all play a significant role in this effort. We’ll discuss these in more detail below, but first distribution company executives must understand employee recruitment and retention efforts start with the company’s overall mission and company culture.
Positive Company Culture – One of the most important things to keep in mind when working to retain employees in a warehouse environment is that employees need to feel valued and supported. This can be achieved through a variety of strategies, including implementing consistent management practices, offering meaningful training opportunities, and creating a positive company culture.
Start by actively listening to employees when they identify areas for improvement and look for ways to make their workday more enjoyable by offering collaborative tools and reducing repetitive tasks. The next few topics cover ways to achieve this.
When management invests in the success of their employees, it sends a clear message that their contributions are valued and that they are essential to the success of the company.
Modern Cloud-based Technology – A primary way to foster a positive working environment in a warehouse setting is through the use of advanced cloud-based technology, such as Infor CSD. Designed specifically for the distribution industry, this software allows employees to access real-time data and business intelligence while streamlining operational tasks. For example, its advanced warehouse management capabilities help automate inventory and supply chain processes, reducing manual labor and streamlining workflows. These tools not only help to optimize efficiency but also provide employees with more time to focus on higher-level tasks that better utilize their skills, increasing job satisfaction and retention.
Handheld Devices – Handheld devices are also an ideal tool for improving employee retention in a warehouse environment. The mobility of these devices permits employees to move freely about the warehouse while still being able to access current information about inventory, customer orders, and other important data.
Tasks are completed more timely and efficiently with handheld devices and these tools help mitigate repetitive or tedious work.
Warehouse Automation Tools – Lastly, warehouse automation also plays a significant role in keeping warehouse employees satisfied with their job roles. Automation tools, such as automated storage and retrieval systems, help to reduce workload and alleviate physical demands on employees by restructuring the picking and packing process.
Incorporating AI technology such as chatbots for basic customer service inquiries is the perfect example of how automated systems give distribution employees the freedom to tackle more important tasks. When employees aren’t inundated with routine tasks, they’re more available for higher-value activities and will likely be more satisfied with their job and the company.
In Summary – Employee Recruitment and Retention Efforts are Vital to Your Distribution Company’s Success
It’s all about improving the employee experience. To attract new employees, distributors should highlight their automation efforts to support their employees’ goals for the job and a career in the distribution industry.
NSA partners with hundreds of distributors to implement and help manage Infor’s CSD software. Further, our NSA PLUS+ solutions offer distributors a range of solutions to improve ROI, decrease costs, and enhance security. By partnering with various leading innovators in the industry, we assist with the implementation of the very best technological solutions to boost your overall efficiency.
Contact us for how we can help your distribution business incorporate modern cloud-based technologies into your everyday routine that will have your BEST employees eager to go to work each day.
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