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Odney news, insights, and happenings
Jun 17 2025

Workforce Wins Start with Connection: Why Building Talent Pipelines Matter More Than Ever

Recruiting great talent isn’t about luck, it’s about building the right connections before you even need to hire. With nearly 70% of North Dakota businesses struggling to fill open roles, and many actively trying to grow, it’s clear: finding the right people is one of the biggest challenges companies face today. And while job boards and hiring blitzes may bring in applicants, the real solution starts long before the job listing goes live. 

You can’t wait for talent to show up at your door. Whether you’re a rural hospital, a growing engineering firm, or a utility company, your best hires often come from the relationships you’ve built along the way. 

Think long-term: Your next hire might still be in high school 

North Dakota is home to a wide range of programs that can help employers build a sustainable talent pipeline. Schools, Career and Technical Education (CTE) centers, college internships, apprenticeships, and even work visa pathways are all powerful starting points. 

When employers connect early—with students, educators, and workforce development programs—they open the door to: 

· Inspiring future talent before they leave the state 

· Offering hands-on experiences that clarify career paths 

· Helping fast-track certifications and practical skills 

· Creating brand familiarity long before someone hits “apply” 

In short: these efforts don’t just fill jobs. They build future-ready teams. 

Culture still counts 

Of course, finding the right people is only half the battle. Retaining them is just as important. 

The most successful organizations don’t just offer jobs, they offer purpose, flexibility, and room to grow. Whether it’s creating mentorship opportunities, promoting from within, or reinforcing values through day-to-day operations, culture is the glue that keeps a workforce strong. 

It’s not just about ping-pong tables or pizza Fridays (though no one’s mad about those). It’s about listening, investing in people, and treating your team like the asset they are. 

Engagement drives results When it comes to workforce, that means helping employers think beyond the listing—and into the long game. Whether you're looking to enhance your talent pipeline, connect with future hires, or strengthen your employer brand, our team can help. Reach out to Odney’s Strategic Engagement team to start shaping a recruitment strategy that works for you—and works for the long haul. 

Your next great employee may be closer than you think. The question is: are you building the kind of presence, partnership, and purpose that will help them find you?