Many companies have begun offering sign-on bonuses for new employees, but at one company, a lucky employee will drive off in a brand-new car.
Spherion – a national recruitment and staffing agency – with an office in the CSRA—has found a creative way to combat the labor shortage by offering hiring and retention incentives for its employees. Starting July 12, employees in good standing were entered into weekly drawings for prizes, such as Apple AirPods, MacBook Air laptops, and flat screen TVs. The grand prize – a 2021 Ford Mustang – will be awarded around Sept. 15. “The sweepstakes promotes job growth in a fun and attractive environment,” says Angela Swarts, licensee owner of Spherion’s Augusta office since 1995. “We’re trying as an organization to help people return to the workforce.”
Swarts explains the company will give away 450 prizes nationally, and 150 of those will be awarded regionally. Employees receive one entry in the sweepstakes for each week they remain employed with the company. One local employee was recently selected to receive a set of Apple AirPods.
Like Spherion, other companies have offered incentives to attract and retain new employees, including Ruby Tuesday, ADP, Captain D’s, and McDonald’s. A McDonald’s in Myrtle Beach has even offered a $500 sign-on bonus. According to a Facebook post, the owner of Taqueria El Rey – a Mexican restaurant in Augusta – came up with a unique incentive for employees: free tacos and margaritas after work.
COVID 19 has profoundly changed the U.S. job market and caused widespread unemployment, which led states and the federal government to provide extended unemployment benefits and stimulus checks. Throughout the pandemic, some have been unable to work for various reasons, including company downsizing, health concerns, and childcare issues. “2021 has probably been the most challenging recruitment year I’ve experienced,” Swarts states. She says because so many employers are hiring, it’s important for companies to attract employees. “We always say, ‘The fight for talent is fierce,’’ Swarts explains. “We currently have upwards of 50 job opportunities available, and what better way to not only attract great workers, but recognize our hard-working associates than by giving them the opportunity to win phenomenal prizes and potentially a brand-new car?”
For more information or to apply for a job with Spherion, visit spherion.com or call 706-868-0911.
