3 Takeaways from the 2024 International Builders’ Show

Posted on March 08, 2024

I love the annual International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas, and go as frequently as possible.  New products, dozens of clients under one roof and a big opportunity to hear what’s happening across the industry.  I have to say, I had some eye-opening chats with manufacturer clients. There were three recurring topics that resonated with at least two dozen manufacturers of various sizes.

1. Talent Needs

First off, it seemed like everyone was on the hunt for top-notch talent. It was a real theme across the board and a constant topic of conversation.

2. Salary Insights

Secondly, I was asked over and over again, “Why are salaries going up so fast?”.  Short answer, hiring demand is outpacing talent supply and it’s expensive to relocate someone.  More to come on this one, so stay tuned.

3. Past Hiring Mistakes

The third thing that kept coming up was this phrase: “We need to hire the right person this time.” This time? What do you mean?   It’s quickly becoming a major issue for companies who settled for sub-par talent. A lot of folks mentioned settling for underwhelming employees just because they felt like there weren’t better options out there. The urgency to find people with that special something, that spark to really make a difference in their teams, was super apparent.

Thinking about all this, it’s clear that the quest for remarkable talent and the importance of finding people who can truly elevate teams is a timeless truth in the world of hiring and team building. Settling for less just because we think there’s a shortage of great candidates not only holds back our organizations but also holds back our teams.

We’ve got to stick to our guns when it comes to seeking out and nurturing talent that not only has the right skills but also brings passion and motivation to the table. The experience at the Builders’ Show really hammered home the idea that the pursuit of exceptional talent is an ongoing mission that requires us to keep our eyes peeled for individuals who can inject energy, innovation, and inspiration into our teams. It’s a reminder that aiming for extraordinary talent is a key part of keeping our organizations moving forward—anything less just won’t cut it!

If you’re struggling to find the right talent or need industry insight on salaries, be sure to connect with me on LinkedIn and reach out.