Recruitment of young skilled talent remains an ongoing challenge in today’s rapidly evolving print industry. But seldom discussed is an equally important issue – how to RETAIN that same young skilled talent by inspiring them each and every workday.
In our experiences dealing with clients across the U.S. and Canada, one consistent theme has emerged: the positive transformational effects of our highly customized workflow automation solutions, not just on a customer’s production processes, but on the employees who use our software. In a nutshell, automation allows any business to do so much more with the equipment and people they already have.
However, a hidden benefit of this transformation is the morale-boosting pride in learning new skills, becoming much more efficient, and suddenly being viewed as a valuable team player and a key part of the success of that business. That well-earned self-esteem can mean the difference between an employee going to work, and an employee eager, excited and inspired to go to work. In other words, a loyal staffer who will likely remain with your company for the long term.
So, what’s the problem?
Many Gen Zs and millennials want employers to provide guidance, inspiration, and mentorship.
Some printers seem to undervalue employee learning and development. I see two reasons. First, of its nature, printing is a labour-intensive, deadline-driven industry, and involves repetitive (i.e. boring) production processes, with little time left for personal learning. And second, many employers still believe that raising a Gen Zs or Millennial’s salary is the answer. Well, they would be…..wrong! But don’t believe me.
Now in its 14th year, Deloitte’s 2025 global survey of over 23,000 Gen Zs and Millennials found that these generations are laser-focused on growth and learning. The survey revealed that Gen Zs are more interested in a work-life balance than climbing the corporate ladder. Only 6% said their primary career goal is to reach a leadership position. When asked the reasons for choosing to work for their current employer, learning and development were in the top three! But many Gen Zs and millennials still feel their managers are missing the point. They want employers to provide guidance, inspiration, and mentorship – not just oversight of daily tasks.
Skills development is paramount
Soft skills are vital as GenAI transforms the way Gen Zs and millennials work, the report pointed out. Three-quarters of Gen Zs (74%) and millennials (77%) believe GenAI will impact the way they work within the next year. They are focused on training and skills development to prepare them to work alongside the technology. And as they continue developing their technical skills, they also believe that developing soft skills such as empathy and leadership, are more important than ever. “As Gen Zs and millennials navigate a rapidly changing world of work, they are re-evaluating the capabilities they need to succeed and the support they want from their employers,” said Elizabeth Faber, Deloitte Global Chief People & Purpose Officer.
Automation doesn’t supersede talent
Yes, automation helps printers by increasing productivity and product quality, reducing costly errors, and fostering better customer experiences. But automation doesn’t supersede talent. With automation, talent is freed up to succeed. And never forget the ‘hidden’ human benefits – an improved work-life balance by reducing the amount of tedious and mundane jobs, which in turn boosts morale and creates a more satisfying work experience. Make no mistake, that’s what today’s young people want. And that’s how you’ll keep them as employees for years to come.
Significans Automation can help you with staff training
With customized training and development services from Significans Automation, you can do more with the equipment and people you already have, invigorate your teams, reduce employee burnout, and future-proof your business. In other words, we can make you more self-sufficient when it comes to workflow automation – without the high costs of outside education or general courses. The printi industry and the world of customized automation and integration are constantly evolving – and so are our training courses.
For a review of your shop’s specific training needs, please contact us or call 1-877-463-4465. You’ll be directed not to a salesperson or a third party, but to one of our regional workflow automation and integration experts who has years of hands-on, production-floor experience.
