Ngā tirohanga ki te ao ahumahi, whai mahi hoki | Perceptions of industries and careers
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A number of our industries report that the community and job seekers have negative perceptions of the industry and what it means to work in it. This impacts their ability to attract locals and people from outside the region to jobs. These challenges are not unique to Marlborough; however, we continue to see the effect of them play out locally.
Reasons for negative perceptions vary. For some of our primary industries negative perceptions are related to people’s views on sustainability and about pay and working conditions. For example, due to the physical nature of onshore aquaculture work, the conditions and hours were identified as deterrents. This includes processing work which is often done in shifts and is unattractive to many, particularly those with young children.
For other industries, such as construction, low participation by women acts as a barrier to women wanting to enter the workforce.
Another consideration is that as the demographic of our workforce changes, with more young people and young Māori entering the workforce, there will be different expectations regarding the working environment. This includes inclusive workplaces and the environmental and ethical impacts of the industry. If workplaces are not receptive to this and do not start to address and communicate about these issues, they may struggle to attract young people into their industry.
Action for year one
Undertake research into best practice examples of industries that have taken actions to improve perceptions of their industry and career opportunities.
Connection to Te Tauihu Intergenerational Strategy
- Pūtea – Economy: Supporting our local businesses by promoting them locally whilst maintaining a license to operate in our key export markets.
- Pūtea – Economy: People, communities, Iwi and consumers will seek out organisations that are aligned with their values and beliefs.
How this contributes to our vision for the future of Marlborough
Outcome one: A resilient, sustainable economy and workforce
- Everyone is enabled to participate fully in the labour market.
Pathway one: Diverse opportunities for meaningful employment
- Our workforce supports a diversified and productive economy.
Pathway two: Equitable workplaces
- We have modern and equitable workplaces so that everyone is able to achieve their potential.
Pathway three: People are attracted to live and work in Marlborough
- People see the opportunities in Marlborough and want to live here.