Don't compare apples and oranges in employment relationships

Wanted: 'a real go-getter', all-round employee with the right knowledge and practical experience. Someone who wants to work with both head and hands, likes to operate modern tractors and machines and has knowledge of GPS. In agriculture we are constantly looking for the proverbial sheep with five legs.

A big challenge because; how do you attract and retain the right employees? First you have to find them. Then you also have to make them enthusiastic about your company and activities. Older entrepreneurs often sigh: "It used to be different. Back then you were happy with just a job. Now you have to arrange everything, make promises and on top of that offer a solid reward to get someone over the line." And they have a point: there is plenty of work. Employees have plenty of choice and companies from all kinds of sectors attract the same people. Society has simply changed.

Nervous
A restaurant owner friend recently said: "I used to be nervous as an applicant for an interview. Now I'm nervous as an employer, but then to get people in at all." The hospitality industry and agriculture show many similarities in this: irregular hours, peaks and troughs in work pressure and not always the cleanest or easiest work.

Meanwhile, young adults openly discuss their work experiences among themselves. The modernity of machines, the size of companies, but especially the employment conditions and salaries. And this is where things often go wrong. Apples are compared with oranges. Especially since the introduction of the DBA 2025 Act (Deregulation Assessment of Employment Relations), it is important for employers to pay close attention.

Avoiding risks
Are there self-employed persons working for you? Then it is crucial to check whether he or she complies with the new regulations. Much has already been said about this in the media and via accountants, but you still hear entrepreneurs say: "If someone offers themselves as a self-employed person, then that is their own responsibility, isn't it?" Do you also know what the risks are? Have you already adjusted your contracts? Have you even drawn up a contract with the self-employed person? If it later turns out that someone does not meet the requirements, then you as the client are still responsible for the employer's charges on his or her remuneration. A risk that you should better avoid.

And then back to those apples and oranges. Employees regularly compare a self-employed hourly rate with a salary as an employee, without considering the whole picture. This is where employers have a task. Provide a clear explanation of the total reward. Things like pensions and insurance are often underestimated, while they offer a lot of value in the long term. Also have regular progress interviews. Training, flexibility in work or discussing the future of the company and the employee together. These are all opportunities to accommodate your employees through secondary employment conditions.

Apples and pears
The strength of a company lies in its people. In you and your family, but also in your employees. Avoid comparing apples and oranges. Don't let yourself be sold turnips for oranges.

Arjan Ausma

Arjan Ausma is senior relationship manager at Farmers Funding & Advice and he is a steward/broker. He also has his own farm.

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