Grand Forum du Québec: Learning about international hiring, employee retention, and industry attraction
The Grand Forum du Québec made its way to Trois-Rivières this year for a packed day of learning, collaborating, and strategizing for overcoming current challenges faced in Quebec’s auto care sector.
The day started with opening presentations and a panel discussion, moderated by Réjean Lortie, who has worked in the industry for over 40 years and has worked alongside sales teams, customer service, and management to help maximize profitability and long-term business success.
After a networking and lunch break, the day fully kicked off with 45-minute workshops, all of which covered critical industry topics, from best hiring practices, how to navigate the skills shortage in the auto care sector, to ensuring long-term business success.
International recruitment: How does it work?
Attracting global talent to Quebec’s auto care sector is easier said than done. When it comes to recruiting and hiring skilled workers from abroad, having some guidance is more than helpful.
This workshop, presented by Karim Mouldi of Canari International Recruitment, provided further insight and strategies for how to effectively recruit and hire international skilled workers.
“If you pay less than the minimum wage to your international workers, you may be required to invest in your worker to help them settle in. If you pay more than the minimum wage of $26 an hour, you are not responsible for their settlement in the country, such as housing, transportation, etc.” said Mouldi.
Taking action: A how-to
Following that, there was another workshop presented by Senior Training Advisor, CPCPA, Philip Bussière, focusing on the necessary tools to take action, such as training programs, to succeed in today’s auto care sector.
“We are just at the beginning of promoting the profession to the public. We still have a long way to go. We must succeed in changing the mindset, not of the people in the industry, but of those who perceive the industry. We must turn the industry into an opportunity in the eyes of the public.”
Maintaining balance and financial success
The third workshop, presented by Mario Comtois, PME Guru, and Antoine Janisse of Del Vasto Group, taught attendees new strategies on how to work better and how to ensure balance and profitability in their business.
“People often leave their jobs for salary reasons, but more often it is because of a lack of well-being at work. There are several possible solutions to the issue of workplace well-being that can be implemented and help address workforce loss in your workshops. Find out the why of your workforce and address it wherever possible.” explained Comtois.
“The success of your business depends on organizing your calendar and scheduling appointments with consumers.” said Janisse.
The day was concluded with a cocktail hour and aperitif for attendees, where they could further connect and discuss the workshops they attended and implementing new strategies to ensure success in the industry.
Until next time!
With spring coming up soon, so is the Quebec Division Golf Tournament on May 30th, 2024. Stay tuned for updates!