Politics alone will not solve the skills shortage. How industry associations can effectively support their members with coaching, networking, and HR marketing.
The skills shortage is a pressing issue. It affects not only the economy but also a country's social structure. In Switzerland, the Swiss Employers' Association (SAV) presented an action plan in April 2023 that includes several strategies to combat this shortage. One measure is extending working hours to increase productivity. Furthermore, the SAV proposes incentives for higher labor force participation, such as abolishing the marriage penalty and introducing individual taxation. Another point is the promotion of vocational training.
These proposals are valuable. However, the responsibility for implementation does not lie with politics alone. Companies themselves must take action to counteract the skills shortage. The will and insight are often there, but many companies lack the know-how, the budget, or the knowledge of where to find support.
This is where industry associations can step in as key players. Their services range from coaching and networking opportunities to specialized HR marketing measures. These offerings are valuable because many companies invest in job portals and recruitment agencies without knowing about more effective and often cheaper alternatives. This opens up new possibilities, allowing companies to choose the measures that provide them with the greatest benefit.
Another aspect is the attractiveness of apprenticeship positions. Vocational training tends to be losing popularity, while education at universities and technical colleges is increasing. Therefore, it is crucial to make vocational training more attractive and to foster interest among young people and their parents. This can be achieved through better training conditions, practical relevance, and clear career prospects. Here, too, industry associations and companies are equally in demand.
The skills shortage remains a complex challenge. It requires a coordinated effort from politics, companies, and industry associations. If resources are pooled and best practices are shared, the Swiss labor market will remain competitive.
At Emarket, we also want to do our part and support associations and companies in positioning themselves for the long term in the labor market and preventing the skills shortage with targeted measures. You can contact us at any time.
