If you’ve been following the news in New York of late, you’ve likely noticed a distinctly high- tech theme. Micron announcing plans to invest $100 billion over the next 20 years to build up to four computer chip fabs in Syracuse; Malta chipmaker GlobalFoundries reporting record earnings and profits as it considers further expansion; Albany NanoTech’s rise as a favorite to land the nation’s first National Semiconductor Technology Center; and a growing number of industry-university collaborations driving innovation while also preparing the future workforce.
This exciting environment served as the backdrop for the New York State Innovation Summit held this fall in Buffalo. As a first-time attendee, I was blown away by what I saw: more than 100 New York-based companies showing off next-generation technologies in advanced manufacturing, biotech, clean energy, AI, and much more. New York’s emergence as a technology powerhouse is clear, and in that spirit, I offer 3 takeaways on what it means for employers.
1) Technology won’t automate people out of jobs. Some employers think they can replace good employees with automated systems and technology, and some employees fear their jobs will be replaced by software and robots. In either case, that’s simply not true. Certainly, more routine and repetitive tasks can be automated effectively, but that will be to the benefit of both – creating additional opportunities for professionals to contribute to an organization’s most valuable areas, and enabling companies to focus employees’ brainpower, skills and talents on key functions. Further, the advent of new technologies will create novel career tracks that will support the needs of employers and employees.
2) Employers need to think about relocation differently. Job growth, both at the tech firms and those that will support them, will present a chance to attract talent from all over the country – in fact, from across the world. Employers seeking top professionals will need to change their mindset and consider paying for relocation with fewer strings attached. Keep in mind, tech employees have spouses and partners that will come with them and further stock the candidate pool. And, as word-of-mouth begins to spread, their colleagues and friends may also be interested in building careers here. It’s a great opportunity to grow our businesses and our population at the same time.
3) Employers need to build their employment brand and presence now. It makes no difference whether or not your company is in tech. Tech companies will need support from a variety of partners and vendors, in every area you can imagine, from legal, marketing and HR, to office maintenance and supplies, to food and event providers. In order to take advantage of the growth we expect, every company will need a top-notch workforce. Recruiting, hiring and keeping those great employees starts with promoting why your organization is one they should consider. Don’t wait until the need arises – start preparing now by creating and publicizing an employment brand that showcases the assets and advantages your company offers to employees.
This is an exciting time for companies throughout New York, and the professionals at Alaant can help maximize your recruiting resources and impact. Interested in learning more? Contact us today and let’s get the conversation started!
