Attraction and Retention

Our strategy focusses on three key issues that hold back workforce development 

1. Struggling to Attract and Keep Talent
   Employers need skilled workers, but the current education-to-employment system isn’t delivering enough of them—and retention is a growing challenge.
2. Career Pathways Are Hard to See
   People can’t aim for roles they don’t know exist. When pathways into and through industry aren’t visible, potential employees may look elsewhere. 
3. Progression Isn’t Equal for Everyone
   Not all employees have the same opportunities to grow. Inequities in career progression and workplace experience are limiting potential across the workforce. 

Aotearoa New Zealand faces urgent talent shortages in critical industries, including manufacturing, engineering, and logistics. Building a talent pool of skilled, work-ready young people is essential for business sustainability and national economic growth.  

This guide offers practical, research-informed strategies and actions for employers to engage effectively with schools and communities, to strengthen career readiness and future workforce capabilities. 

Building on existing frameworks and insights gathered from the Hanga-Aro-Rau Workforce Development Council Pathways team through successful partnerships and events, this guide outlines how businesses of any size can contribute meaningfully to the development of young people, while realising business benefits such as improved workforce pipeline, community reputation and workforce diversity. 

Download the full guide here.