As Thailand's industries—ranging from manufacturing and life sciences to logistics and infrastructure—continue to grow, businesses are increasingly facing a significant challenge: finding skilled workers.
The talent shortage has become a critical issue for many sectors, making talent acquisition strategies more important than ever.
To ensure long-term success and sustain growth, companies must adopt innovative approaches to talent acquisition that can attract, develop, and retain top talent..
Understanding the Talent Acquisition Landscape in Thailand
Talent acquisition in Thailand faces several challenges, with one of the main obstacles being the limited English communication skills in the workforce. According to the 2023 English Proficiency Index by EF, Thailand ranks 8th among ASEAN countries and 101st globally, placing it in the "very low" proficiency category. The index further reveals that Thailand trails behind not only Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia but also Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Cambodia in English-speaking ability. Combined with an aging population, a skills mismatch, and rapid technological advancements, these factors make it increasingly difficult for businesses to find the talent needed to stay competitive in the global market.
Here are some key strategies for improving talent acquisition efforts in Thailand.
1. Upskilling and Reskilling as a Key Talent Strategy
One of the most effective ways to bridge the talent gap is by focusing on upskilling and reskilling your current workforce. Rather than solely relying on external hires, companies can invest in developing the skills of their existing employees.
This approach not only helps fill roles more quickly but also fosters loyalty and engagement within the workforce.
For industries like manufacturing and logistics, where technology and automation are transforming traditional roles, upskilling employees in areas such as data analytics, robotics, and AI can be crucial.
Investing in training programmes to improve your employees’ skills positions your business as forward-thinking and proactive in addressing the talent shortage.
2. Using Technology for Smarter Talent Acquisition
As the talent acquisition process evolves, leveraging technology is becoming a must. AI-powered recruitment tools and data-driven recruitment service can help companies streamline their talent acquisition efforts by quickly identifying qualified candidates.
These tools allow your talent acquisition team to assess skills, experiences, and even cultural fit for the company.
In addition to AI tools, companies can utilise social media platforms like LinkedIn to broaden their reach and target potential candidates.
Talent acquisition team can use these platforms to engage with passive candidates—those who aren’t actively seeking a job but are open to opportunities which will help expand their candidate pool.
3. Partnering with Educational Institutions for New Talent
A long-term solution for addressing talent shortages is forming partnerships with universities, vocational schools, and technical training centers.
By working closely with educational institutions, companies can help shape the curricula to match industry needs and ensure that future graduates are equipped with the necessary skills.
Offering internships and Co-Ops programmes are also important for a strong talent acquisition since these initiatives allow students to gain real-world experience while companies are able to work with potential talents. In industries such as life sciences and infrastructure, where specialised skill is critical, this approach can create a steady pipeline of qualified candidates ready to enter the workforce.
4. Boosting Employer Branding to Attract Top Talent
A strong employer brand is a key factor in effective talent acquisition.
With the rise of social media where information is easily accessible by anyone, a competition for talent has been a real challenge for companies. In order for companies to stand out as attractive employers. A well-crafted Employer Value Proposition (EVP) that highlights company culture, career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment is essential for attracting top talent.
Many candidates today are looking for more than just a paycheck. They want a workplace that aligns with their values, offers growth potential, and supports work-life balance.
Promoting these aspects of your company through your employer brand can significantly boost your talent acquisition efforts.
5. Expanding Talent Pools Through Diversity and Inclusion
A comprehensive talent acquisition strategy should prioritise diversity and inclusion.
By creating an inclusive workplace, companies can consider diversity in nationality, age, gender, and capability. Not only does this broaden the available talent pool, but also enhances creativity, innovation, and problem-solving within the organisation.
For example, the manufacturing and logistics industries in Thailand have traditionally had low female participation. By actively promoting gender diversity and offering policies that support work-life balance, companies can attract a more diverse workforce and fill critical talent gaps.
6. Implementing Flexible Work Models to Attract Top Talent
In today’s job market, offering remote work and flexible work arrangements has become a critical part of talent acquisition. Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, many candidates prioritise work-life balance and flexible working conditions over traditional 9-to-6 roles.
Allowing employees to work remotely or offering flexible hours enables businesses to tap into a broader talent pool, including workers outside major cities or even internationally.
This flexibility helps attract younger generations who value work-life balance, making it a key element in modern talent acquisition strategies.
Talent shortages cannot be overlooked
To overcome Thailand’s talent shortages, companies must embrace innovative and forward-thinking processes. Investing in upskilling existing employees, leverage recruitment technology and building partnerships with universities can help businesses prepare for the upcoming talent landscape.
The companies that successfully rethink their talent acquisition approach will not only address the current talent shortages but also position themselves as leaders in Thailand’s competitive market. With a comprehensive and proactive strategy, businesses can attract, develop, and retain the talent they need to thrive well into the future.
Partner with JacksonGrant Recruitment for Success in Thailand
Are you preparing to address talent shortages in Thailand’s competitive market? We are here to support you.
As Thailand's leading Industrial, Logistics, and Supply Chain recruitment agency, we connect experienced, technically proficient, English-speaking candidates with sustainability job opportunities across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Our comprehensive recruitment solutions, strategic insights, and commitment to excellence enable businesses to take full advantage of the opportunities within Thailand's dynamic manufacturing ecosystem. Collaborate with JacksonGrant Recruitment to secure the talent that will drive your business forward.For more information on how JacksonGrant Recruitment can support your manufacturing talent needs, please contact us.