Embracing Industry 4.0: Attracting a Younger Workforce

03.26.24 | Looking to Hire, Management Tips

If you’re trying to hire new light industrial workers, you’re probably already aware of how hard it is to attract younger employees. Many young people see manufacturing and distribution as physically demanding, dead-end jobs that aren’t relevant to their lives. Of course, this couldn’t be further from the truth! A light industrial career is a stable way to make a great paycheck while using creative thinking to solve complex problems. One of the best ways to convince younger workers of this while also future-proofing your facility is to embrace Industry 4.0. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Industry 4.0?

Industry 4.0 refers to the fact that we’re currently in what experts call the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Technology is evolving at seemingly lightning speed, and the Internet of Things is revolutionizing how goods are manufactured, stored, and transported. Industry 4.0 is what drives our modern, globally-connected, e-commerce-focused world.

Advantages

The technological revolution offers quite a few advantages for both companies and workers in the light industrial sector:

  • Automating mundane tasks. This frees up your employees to focus on more complex problem-solving and innovation.
  • Taking over dangerous jobs. Autonomous robots and drones can now perform some of the more dangerous aspects of light industrial work. From heavy lifting to working at heights, these technologies can make the job safer than ever before.
  • Employee engagement. According to Forbes, a stunning 80% of Gen Z workers want to work with up-and-coming technologies, and 91% consider technology when deciding where to work. Embracing Industry 4.0 means offering these job seekers what they’re looking for.

Selling It to Younger Candidates

So, how can you use Industry 4.0 to sell your company to younger workers? Simply make it clear which technologies you use, and how you’re implementing them. Briefly outline them in your job descriptions. Talk about them during interviews. And be sure to bring new workers up to speed during the onboarding process. Don’t forget to upskill your current team members as well. Modern companies are most successful when everyone leans into technology.

Need Some New Employees?

Workbox Staffing partners with light industrial companies to provide temporary, temp-to-hire, or permanent employees in more than 30 locations across the Midwest, Midatlantic, and Southeast. If you’re ready to grow your workforce, get in touch with us today!