With a limited candidate pool and larger companies often drawing people south, small business owners need to be intentional about hiring and retention.
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Q: How can my business attract and keep great employees?
ACE advises: Finding and keeping great employees has always been a challenge, but for small businesses, the competition for talent can feel even tougher. With a limited candidate pool and larger companies often drawing people south, small business owners need to be intentional about hiring and retention.
1. Start with referrals: Your current employees are one of your best recruiting tools. A referral from someone who knows your business and culture is often more effective than any job posting. Offer a small incentive — bonus, gift card or extra day off — when a referral leads to a hire. If you don’t have a program, put one in place.
2. Tap local schools and trade programs: Excellent universities, trade schools and community colleges produce skilled graduates every year. Don’t wait for students to find you — show up at career fairs, guest lectures and student events. This not only helps with hiring today but also builds a future pipeline and keeps graduates local.
3. Build retention through community: Retention isn’t just about salary; it’s about belonging. Encourage employees to represent your company at local events or nonprofit initiatives. When employees feel connected to both your business and the wider community, they’re more likely to stay.
4. Invest in growth: For many workers, especially younger talent, opportunities for continuing education, certifications or skill-building are key. Show that you’re invested in their future and they’ll be more invested in yours.
5. Offer flexibility: Post pandemic, flexibility is one of the most requested benefits. Even if remote work isn’t possible, consider flexible hours, compressed work weeks or occasional remote days.
6. Celebrate and recognize: Small businesses can make recognition personal. A handwritten thank-you note, a shout-out at a meeting or a celebration of anniversaries can go a long way.
Attracting and retaining talent in Maine isn’t about competing with big-city salaries — it’s about creating meaningful connections, investing in growth and showing employees they matter.
Dave Williams, founder of Triton Talent Solutions. has over 20 years’ experience building, leading and transforming recruiting departments at businesses of all sizes. Contact him at dave@tritontalentsolutions.com