The people I have a hard time replacing are the touch up people, the test people, the machine operators, machinists, the basic manufacturing skills. And, of course, anybody with a work ethic is almost impossible these days. On time? (forget it!) Over-time? (forget it!) Work a full 40 hours in a week? (forget it) Show up every day? (forget it) They are really good while they are on probation, and the minute they qualify for full benefits, their attention and dedication deteriorates.
We have the best luck with vets, when we can getthem. I have a wonderful Iraq vet (Marine) who is finishing college and he works for us part time. But, I am going to lose him soon as he leaves to try an office job in preparation for his graduation. He is not an engineer, or I'd put him in my office, and he has his sights set on something higher than purchasing. I am really going to miss him.
I don’t and never did like the idea of probation....unless it was 6 months or longer. People can make do on 30-60 day probation periods. One thing for sure, never call a person a permanent employee. EEO can kill you on that if you try and get rid of them. I’ve fired a few people that didn’t show up for work. You’ll see the slackers always take of on Mondays or Fridays.....I’d warn them one time.