As we head into spring, many Devils Lake businesses are already thinking ahead to summer, the Lake Region's busiest season for tourism, construction, retail, and seasonal services.
But with hiring challenges continuing across rural communities, filling positions isn’t always as simple as posting a job opening.
The good news? There are creative, community-focused solutions that can make a real difference and the time to be "thinking ahead for summer" is here and packed with the perfect time to put them into action.
1. Start with Visibility: Show Why Your Business Is a Great Place to Work
Today’s workforce (especially students and young professionals) want more than just a paycheck.
They’re looking for:
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Flexible scheduling
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Positive workplace culture
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Growth opportunities
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Skills they can build for the future
Consider:
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Posting behind-the-scenes content on social media
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Featuring employee testimonials
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Clearly outlining growth opportunities in your job descriptions
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Highlighting team culture and flexibility
Small businesses have a unique advantage: you can offer hands-on experience and meaningful responsibility from day one.
2. Think Beyond “Help Wanted”. Build Talent Pipelines.
Instead of only hiring when you’re short-staffed, think about long-term workforce development.
Some ideas:
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Offer internships or summer work experiences for high school and college students
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Partner with local schools for career exploration opportunities (like the Summer Job Fair, March 25th)
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Cross-train current staff to build flexibility within your team
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Create referral incentives for current employees
When businesses invest early, they build loyalty and often secure future full-time employees.
3. Collaboration Over Competition
Workforce challenges affect all of us. That’s why collaboration is key.
Consider:
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Coordinating staggered shifts with other businesses
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Co-hosting training sessions
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Sharing best practices
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Referring applicants who may be a better fit elsewhere
A strong local economy depends on businesses supporting one another. Working together encourages students and young-professionals to stay in the area and refer others within their network for future opportunities (and business).
4. Connect with the Next Generation at the Summer Job Fair
One of the easiest ways to expand your applicant pool is to meet potential employees face-to-face.
The Summer Job Fair on March 25th is designed to connect local businesses with local high school and college students.
Participating in the job fair gives your business:
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Direct access to motivated applicants
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Increased community visibility
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An opportunity to showcase your workplace culture
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A head start on summer staffing needs
If you’re planning to hire this summer, even just one position, this event can save you time and help you build connections early.
Workforce Is a Community Effort
Building a strong workforce isn’t just about filling positions. It’s about investing in the future of Devils Lake.
When businesses create opportunities for students, support one another, and stay proactive about hiring, we strengthen our entire community.
If you’re interested in participating in the Summer Job Fair or exploring additional workforce resources, contact the Chamber team! We’re here to help.