Client and Recruiter Trust: Collaboration Makes the Dream Work in Hiring Tradesmen

Finding skilled tradesmen has become increasingly challenging, as recruiters have noted a decline in the availability of top talent with the necessary experience, licenses, certifications, and clean driving records required to operate company vehicles. As the demand for skilled trades continues to rise, our Trustal Team shares key insights to help clients expand their teams and navigate this hiring landscape more effectively.

Here are three essential tips for home service companies looking to build strong trades teams:

1. Act Quickly on Licensed Tradesmen: When you identify a licensed tradesman, don’t hesitate to extend an offer. Given the demand, they are likely to receive multiple opportunities. Speed up the hiring process by negotiating early, then conduct background checks and reference calls afterward. Delaying can result in losing valuable talent, and it’s crucial to foster a trusting relationship with recruiters, who are experienced allies in this process.

2. Consider Training for Potential Candidates: If a candidate lacks some soft skills or technical abilities, evaluate the resources and time needed to train them. Collaborate with franchise owners or corporate teams to create a structured training plan. Remember, continuous training is essential, even for the most seasoned professionals

3. Utilize Recruiting Offers Wisely: Take advantage of recruiting companies that provide “unlimited hires” for a flat rate. This allows you to onboard multiple candidates, sharing knowledge and fostering mentorships within your team. By hiring individuals who fit your company culture and have the passion to grow, you're likely to see a strong return on your investment.

While some trades positions are less common, they can be filled with the right training. For instance, with a solid training manual, and a supervisor or owner leading them, new technicians can quickly adapt to roles like:

• Glass technicians or glaziers, who replace damaged glass in vehicles and buildings. 

  • Initially focused on auto/windshield replacement, these technicians can begin serving customers within a few weeks or so. 

  • They can then grow over time from just doing auto glass work to home and commercial as well. This could be someone who has an amazing, positive personality as well as possibly has window, door installation experience or auto detailing, tinting - something that is associated with the new role, to help with the transition and learning. 

• HVAC helpers, who assist in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installation and repair. 

  • With focused training, new hires can learn the basics of the trade and start contributing to installations within just a few weeks or less. 

  • Again, it’s about finding a good “culture fit” and someone who is mechanically inclined and highly interested in growing into an HVAC technician/installer.

When hired as a solid "culture fit," these employees have the potential to grow with the company over time and do great things for an organization. It’s about a long-game plan. This approach fosters a team that is consistently trained to meet owners’ and managers’ standards, ensuring they provide quality service, done right the first time.

Many seek candidates with specific experience or personality traits for Service Professional roles, but the reality is that the talent pool is limited. In states with strict licensing requirements, obtaining certifications can take time, hinging on extensive documented hours and testing. While technical skills may be non-negotiable, soft skills are teachable. 

Home service companies can enhance their teams through role-playing practices and software to provide performance feedback. However, to successfully implement such training, organizations must factor in planning and time—rushing the hiring process can lead to suboptimal outcomes from a limited candidate pool, and it falls on everyone to ensure that timing and compensation align to secure ideal candidates.

In conclusion, the art of recruiting skilled tradesmen hinges on collaboration, trust, and strategic planning. By acting quickly to secure licensed professionals, valuing potential over perfection, and leveraging flexible recruiting options, home service companies can enhance their teams and adapt to the evolving labor market. Embracing these strategies will not only streamline hiring processes but will also foster a culture of growth and collaboration, ultimately leading to greater success in meeting customer demands.