Technology can be a talent magnet – but you’re not using it right...

In industrial sectors like steel, manufacturing, and engineering, many employers continue to rely on tried-and-tested processes, overlooking a major opportunity to appeal to a new generation of skilled workers.

In this guide, we’ll explore why embracing digital transformation is a must for industrial employers looking to secure high-calibre recruits – and we’ll outline five practical strategies to help you stand out in a competitive market.

After all, if you want to attract the brightest minds of the future, it starts with modernising how you work and how you’re perceived.

Why Adapting to the Digital Age Is Essential

As BM Steel General Manager and innovative industry leader Greg Kirky points out: ‘Companies reliant on outdated methods struggle to attract skilled workers who prioritise innovation and agility.’

Today’s up-and-coming talent expects modern, data-driven environments; they want to know that their future employer is investing in automation, analytics, and collaborative digital platforms.

But it’s not just about adopting new tools for the sake of it. It’s about championing sustainability, fostering a collaborative culture, and proving you’re ready to evolve.

By integrating technologies like AI-driven supply chains, IoT-enabled production lines, and data-driven resource management, you’ll bring big benefits to your business:

Understanding Gen Z’s Mindset

Gen Z, the latest – and soon to be largest – cohort in the workforce, has grown up immersed in technology. They’re seeking flexible, purpose-driven roles where they can innovate, see tangible results, and make a real impact.

As Greg points out, ‘These digital-native professionals seek employers leveraging data analytics, automation, and smart tools.’ In other words, Gen Z expects the workplace to mirror the tech-savvy world they’ve always known.

They value transparent leadership, collaborative cultures, and companies that demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. In fact, according to research by Deloitte, a majority of Gen Z professionals want to believe that they have the power to drive change in their organisation. 

Source: Deloitte.

If employers can show they’re proactive about technological innovation and personal development, they’ll be far more likely to draw – and retain – the next generation of high-potential talent.

5 Strategies to Attract Talent in the Digital Age

In Greg’s words, ‘Competition is fierce, with industrial firms now vying against tech-driven sectors.’

So, what can you do to make your company more appealing to forward-thinking talent?

Below are five strategies that blend tradition with modern innovation – helping you stand out in a marketplace where cutting-edge tech and collaborative cultures are increasingly non-negotiable.

1.      Embrace Cutting-Edge Technologies and Showcase Innovation

Digital transformation is a signal to prospective hires that you’re actively shaping the future of the industry.

What to Do

Forward-looking companies invest in AI, IoT, and automated processes to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and create safer work environments – projecting a culture of ongoing innovation that resonates with tech-savvy talent.

Showcasing these advancements is equally crucial. So, offer virtual or on-site tours to spotlight modern equipment and share real-world success stories. Employee testimonials about using advanced tools also give potential new hires an insight into the challenges they’ll help tackle, sparking interest in the impact they can make on your team.

2.      Foster a Culture of Continuous Learning and Upskilling

Modern workforces – and particularly younger talent – prioritise employers who invest in professional development and long-term skill growth.

What to Do

Offer structured training programs, coaching, and clear advancement pathways to show that your company is committed to helping employees evolve alongside industry innovations.

Encouraging cross-functional projects, mentorships, and regular skill assessments keeps teams engaged and positions you as a forward-thinking employer. By supporting ongoing development, you not only strengthen individual careers but also future-proof your organisation in a rapidly shifting market.

3.      Leverage Digital Collaboration

Greg tells us that ‘Digitalisation thrives on collaboration within industries and beyond.’ But how can you leverage collaboration in a way that meaningfully drives innovation?

What to Do

Digital tools are key to bridging gaps between teams internally, encouraging transparent communication, and ensuring that knowledge flows freely. Meanwhile, two-way mentoring – pairing experienced professionals with newer, more digitally fluent hires – facilitates mutual learning and keeps everyone adaptable.

From an external point of view, Greg suggests that ‘firms partner with tech companies to develop smart manufacturing solutions, work with research institutions on new materials, and optimise logistics with real-time tracking.’

By creating a collaborative environment, you enable employees to share insights, refine processes, and help position your organisation as an industry leader.

4.      Share Purpose-Driven Narratives

Many up-and-coming candidates are looking for a deeper ‘why’ behind their work.

By illustrating how digitalisation contributes to sustainability, resource conservation, and overall social impact, you position your company as a community-focused innovation leader.

What to Do

Showcase tangible outcomes. This could include highlighting real data on how AI-driven maintenance reduces waste, or how connected sensors help cut energy consumption.

Share employee stories of how these technologies support meaningful projects, like lowering emissions or improving workplace safety. This approach reassures prospective hires that your business isn’t just embracing innovation for profit, but also to make a positive difference in the industry and beyond.

5.      Boost Your Digital Employer Brand 

An impactful employer brand can set you apart in today’s hyper-competitive talent market – especially when it showcases your tech-driven culture.

What to Do

Share authentic, behind-the-scenes stories that highlight how you’re embracing digitalisation, from AI-assisted production lines to collaborative digital platforms. You can do this through social channels, your website, and employee reviews.

Consider also celebrating employee achievements, demonstrating sustainability milestones, and showcasing real-world examples of how you’re driving transformation in your sector.

By boosting your employer brand, you’ll position yourself as an employer of choice to growth-minded, innovative candidates.

Next Steps for Employers  

‘Industrial sectors must evolve to remain competitive. Companies embracing digital tools, sustainability, and collaboration will lead – not just in performance but in attracting and retaining top talent,’ says Greg.

‘The question is: Are you evolving fast enough to stay ahead?’

From cutting-edge tech investments and collaborative cultures to purpose-driven branding, we’ve explored the strategies industrial employers need to stand out in a fast-changing market.

Ready to put these insights into action?

Download our 10-Step Innovation and Attraction Checklist – a practical guide to modernising your processes and engaging top-tier candidates:

For more insights into how you can position your organisation as an employer of choice and attract the right talent for your organisation, get in touch today.

Remember: innovation isn’t just an advantage – it’s your competitive edge in a tough talent market.