ATLANTA – Winning the race for talent has never been more critical as the entire tech industry faces alarming shortages of skilled workers. To address the challenge, in May and June of 2023, two focus groups were conducted by the Electronic Components Industry Association and its newly-established Industry Recruiting Committee.

The objective of the ECIA's research was to gain insights into what motivates individuals to enter the electronic components industry and to learn how to attract and retain talent, and the research will be used to create strategic marketing collateral for ECIA members to use in recruitment efforts and inform members on best recruitment tactics.

The focus groups consisted of 25 participants and a committee of six ECIA members. The participants had less than five years in the electronic components industry. Some participants were brand new, and others had been in the industry for only a few years. Age was not a determining factor. While many participants were considered the “next generation,” seasoned individuals that were new to the industry were able to participate as well.

Insights include which qualities candidates find attractive about the industry, those that help retain employees and how to keep talent motivated.

ECIA members can access the report here.