Star Paper Mills deploys a multi-faceted approach involving both traditional and digital channels to broaden its reach for talent acquisition and recruitment. The company collaborates with educational institutions, participates in job fairs, uses social media platforms and highlights the positive impact of its work on the environment to attract skilled and passionate individuals. This was shared by Mr. Mohan Sharma, General Manager – Human Resources and Administration, Star Paper Mills Limited, during an interaction with Paper Mart.
Paper Mart: Describe your approach to talent acquisition and recruitment. What has helped you attract the right talent?
Mohan Sharma: Our approach to talent acquisition and recruitment is multi-faceted. We leverage a mix of traditional and digital channels to reach a broader audience. Collaborations with educational institutions, participation in job fairs and using social media platforms are critical strategies. Additionally, we emphasize our company culture, growth opportunities and the positive impact our work has on the environment. This comprehensive approach helps us attract individuals who are not only skilled, but also passionate about our industry.
PM: Given the presence of your mills in rural areas, what challenges do you face in drawing talents there and making them stay?
MS: Though not located in a rural area, one of the primary challenges we face is the limited access to amenities and social opportunities that metro cities provide. To mitigate this, we focus on creating a supportive community within our organization. We offer housing facilities, transportation and recreational activities to make the transition easier. Furthermore, we invest in local infrastructure and community development, which benefits both our employees and the local population, making it more appealing for the candidates to stay.
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PM: Help us understand the people-focused culture you have nurtured in your organization.
MS: Our people-focused culture is built on respect, inclusivity, and continuous learning. We believe in open communication, where every employee’s voice is heard and valued. Our leadership is accessible and encourages collaboration across all levels. Regular training sessions, team-building activities, and recognition programs ensure that our employees feel appreciated and motivated. This culture has helped us create a cohesive and engaged workforce.
PM: Walk us through some of the distinct employee welfare initiatives you have rolled out.
MS: We have rolled out several welfare initiatives to ensure the well-being of our employees. These include comprehensive health and wellness programs, mental health support, and regular health check-ups. We also provide financial assistance for education and skill development, ensuring our employees and their families have access to continuous learning opportunities. Additionally, our employee assistance program offers confidential counseling services for personal and professional issues.
We believe that a diverse workforce brings in varied perspectives and ideas, driving innovation and growth. Inclusivity ensures that all employees feel valued and have equal opportunities to succeed. We have implemented policies to prevent discrimination and promote a respectful and collaborative workplace.
PM: Please discuss the upskilling programmes you have introduced for your mill employees.
MS: Upskilling is a critical component of our HR strategy. We have introduced various programs tailored to the needs of our mill employees, including technical training on the latest machinery, safety protocols, and process optimization techniques. We also offer leadership development programs to help employees grow into managerial roles. These programs are conducted through workshops, online courses, and hands-on training sessions, ensuring our workforce remains competitive and efficient.
PM: How important is diversity and inclusivity to your organization? Please explain.
MS: Diversity and inclusivity are at the core of our organizational values. We believe that a diverse workforce brings in varied perspectives and ideas, driving innovation and growth. Inclusivity ensures that all employees feel valued and have equal opportunities to succeed. We have implemented policies to prevent discrimination and promote a respectful and collaborative workplace. Disseminating awareness on diversity and inclusion helps reinforce these values across the organization.
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PM: What has made your organization a fun place to work?
MS: Our organization fosters a fun and engaging work environment through various initiatives. We regularly organize team outings, sports events, and cultural celebrations to build camaraderie and team spirit. Our office spaces are designed to be vibrant and comfortable, with recreational areas where employees can unwind. We also encourage creativity and innovation, giving employees the freedom to explore new ideas and projects. This balance of work and play keeps our employees motivated and happy.
