03 Changes and challenges of frontline labor force

In manufacturing, the role of front-line labor is undergoing unprecedented change. The new generation of employees has significantly different expectations from the past, not only looking for professional achievement and personal recognition, but also as a key measure of job satisfaction. These changes reflect their drive for excellence and highlight how important satisfaction is to employee resilience, efficiency, productivity, retention, and support for the company.

1. SPHSS03 A critical shift in management strategy

In this context, the management strategy of the front-line workforce needs to be fundamentally adjusted. In an industry where annual employee turnover is now as high as 40%, even a modest increase in employee retention can significantly improve overall profitability. Much of the reason behind this high mobility has to do with a failure to meet the needs of employees.

According to the survey, while 65% of front-line managers believe their communication strategies are effective, only 35% of front-line employees actually feel they are being heard. This division leads to discontent and mobility. Up to 89% of front-line employees said they would be willing to stay with the company long-term if management were better able to listen and respond to employee feedback.

2. Create a supportive work environment

SPHSS03 The job satisfaction and loyalty of frontline employees is closely related to their work environment. They don’t want to just work in an isolated role, but are eager to be part of the dynamics of the business, to understand the root causes of change and when it happens.

What they seek is:

Clear goals and objectives: Employees need to have a clear understanding of their work objectives and how these objectives support the overall strategy of the organization.

In-depth business understanding: Provide opportunities for employees to understand how their work affects the big picture of the organization and enhance their sense of responsibility and belonging.

Flexible ways of working: With the development of technology and the emergence of new working methods, employees expect more flexibility to adapt to the changing needs of work and life.