Investing in People: BluSky's Approach to Employee Success and Retention

Today’s workers are not simply looking for a salary. They’re looking for meaning, purpose, and to grow and advance their careers. For this reason, winning restoration companies don’t just hire employees. They invest in them.

One of the best examples of this is BluSky Restoration Contractors. Chuck Lane is the Vice President of Learning and Development at BluSky, and in our latest episode of "The Restoration Playbook Podcast" he unpacked BluSky's innovative approaches to education, training, and career development and how they contribute to the company's success.

Finding Purpose and Making a Difference: The Power of Investing in Young Workers

Young workers today have been bombarded with messages that traditional blue-collar jobs are not glamorous or desirable career paths. As a result, many of them have turned their backs on the trades and the restoration industry. According to Chuck, anyone who bought into this idea is missing a big opportunity.

"Young people have been told for a while that these jobs aren't worth looking at, that they're not worth getting into, and now we're seeing this huge gap in the trades. And we know realistically that these are the jobs that make the world go round."

Additionally, most of the younger population today want to build themselves up and contribute to a more significant cause. They aspire to be part of a team that is making a difference. At BluSky, they understand this need and strive to provide an environment where employees can find a lifelong career, not just a job. The company wants its employees to embrace their roles and be proud to be part of BluSky.

The concept of finding purpose is not just a buzzword; it is deeply ingrained in the company's philosophy. By offering opportunities for personal and professional growth, BluSky empowers its employees to contribute meaningfully to their work and the restoration industry. They want their workers to feel a sense of belonging, knowing that their contributions matter and are part of a larger vision.

"We want them to be part of our mission, to be proud of what they do. Employees who find meaning in their work are more engaged, productive, and motivated to contribute."

As Gen Z workers seek more than just a paycheck, companies like BluSky are at the forefront of providing fulfilling careers.

Committing to Employee Support and Retention: BluSky's Key Retention Strategy

Developing and nurturing talent within the restoration industry has become a critical strategy for companies seeking to retain this new generation of workers. Investing in effective mentoring programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives will help businesses not only train their employees but also retain them in the long run.

"It's difficult to go to the boss and say you don't know how to do something. It's a lot easier for them to go to a peer to ask, and I think that's just a thing engraved in our human nature."

To effectively combat this, BluSky Restoration Contractors has implemented a multi-layered mentoring program that lasts for approximately 60 to 90 days. During this period, new employees are paired with experienced mentors who can guide them through the company culture, procedures, and job responsibilities.

This strategy not only helps new employees learn the way they want to and navigate their roles more effectively but also provides them with a direct point of contact and culture champion to address any questions or challenges they may face.

“Mentoring should be about building relationships. It's not just this on-the-job training of "here, go train this person in addition to all your other duties". It's about establishing a connection, and we've really tried to reinforce that.”

The mentoring program at BluSky has proven to be a valuable retention strategy and is a key factor in the success of their business. But, beyond the company's success, the mentors and mentees also benefit. Through the teaching process, mentors not only help new employees learn and grow but also discover gaps in their own knowledge. As questions arise from mentees, mentors often find themselves diving deeper into the subject matter, allowing them to reinforce their own expertise and uncover more efficient methods or solutions. This collaborative learning environment benefits both parties and reinforces the culture of continuous improvement and shared knowledge that Blusky has built.

Invest & Retain

By providing education, training, and career development opportunities, companies like BluSky are creating a workforce that is engaged, motivated, and proud of the work they do. Implementing effective mentorship programs not only helps train new employees but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing. As the industry faces a shortage of skilled workers, it is crucial for leaders and owners to prioritize employee support and retention. By investing in people, companies can create a workforce that is dedicated, skilled and committed to making a difference in the restoration industry.

For additional insights, strategies, and best practices on how to win with your workforce, download our newest e-book, "Winning With Workers" today.

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