University of Nebraska-Lincoln Expert Advocates for Improved Farm Labor Retention Through Onboarding

What's Happening?

Shannon Sand, an agricultural economics Extension educator at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has emphasized the importance of a formal onboarding process to improve farm labor retention. Sand, who specializes in risk management, strategic planning, business planning, and finance, suggests that a structured onboarding process can increase employee productivity by over 70% and retention by 82%. Key elements of this process include providing a warm welcome, procedural information, work time and pay expectations, a comprehensive job description, and sharing the farm's philosophy and values. Sand argues that these practices are crucial not only for large farms but also for smaller operations, where family members often have to adapt to changing roles.

Why It's Important?

Improving farm labor retention is critical for the agricultural sector, which often faces challenges in maintaining a stable workforce. By implementing a formal onboarding process, farms can enhance employee satisfaction and productivity, leading to better operational efficiency and reduced turnover costs. This approach can be particularly beneficial for small farms, where labor shortages can significantly impact productivity and profitability. As farms strive to remain competitive, adopting structured onboarding practices can help them attract and retain skilled workers, ultimately supporting the sustainability and growth of the agricultural industry.

What's Next?

Farms that adopt these onboarding practices may see improved employee retention and productivity, potentially leading to increased profitability. As more farms recognize the benefits of structured onboarding, there may be a shift towards more formalized human resource practices in the agricultural sector. This could prompt further research and development of tailored onboarding programs that address the unique needs of farm operations. Additionally, industry stakeholders, including agricultural educators and policymakers, may advocate for broader adoption of these practices to support workforce stability in agriculture.

Beyond the Headlines

The emphasis on onboarding highlights a broader trend towards professionalizing farm management practices. As farms increasingly adopt corporate-style human resource strategies, there may be cultural shifts within the industry, with a focus on employee well-being and career development. This could lead to a more engaged and motivated workforce, fostering innovation and resilience in the agricultural sector. Furthermore, the integration of formal onboarding processes may encourage farms to invest in employee training and development, enhancing the overall skill level of the agricultural workforce.