People Are How Knoxville Makes Supply Chains Better

People will solve the ongoing supply chain crisis. More specifically, we’ll address it by hiring more people to expand port, trucking, warehouse, and delivery capacity that eCommerce shopping demands. That naturally brings up the question: If nearly half of American workers are looking to make career changes, will the logistics and supply chain space attract them?

At Red Stag Fulfillment, we believe that answer to be a resounding “yes,” especially for those in the Knoxville community. Despite what you may have heard about some major warehouses and eCommerce marketplaces, a career in logistics and warehouses can be both rewarding and enjoyable. Here are a few ways companies in our region can reinforce that and help us create a protected, thriving supply chain talent pool.

Creating pathways to advance

Everyone deserves a job that they enjoy and can see growing with them. Warehouse work isn’t just seasonal, though holiday shopping certainly creates increased needs. Logistics companies are designed to continue to grow, expanding as their clients do. This creates a continual need for leadership and expertise, typically best served by promoting from within existing teams.

Warehouse workers may start picking orders, but they should be able to see a clear promotion plan. Having trainers and floor leaders who started as pickers helps everyone realize that there are opportunities for growth. Companies like Red Stag call out successful team members and reward challenging work. By demonstrating this ladder, people are encouraged to build a long-lasting career in fulfillment. Their work protects the supply chain we all depend on throughout the year.

Everyone has value and is important

The Knoxville community places a lot of emphasis on its citizens. We love it when people love to be here and enjoy everything the city has to offer. Our businesses do best when they treat staff the same way. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. That fundamental value of our region should be a core value of our businesses — and it is at Red Stag Fulfillment.

Logistics runs on relationships. That’s true for the warehouse workers who need an enjoyable environment where they can rely on each other. It’s also true for managing global efforts where every part of the supply chain must act in harmony. Foster that in your business by focusing on the value of each employee, praising differences and celebrating wins together. Inclusive environments make your company — and our community — a place people want to be.

Be honest and positive

Ask anyone on our staff, and they’ll tell you, honestly, that you’re going to sweat in a warehouse. Many tasks and roles are physically demanding and require consistent moving. However, you still get to be a person in these roles. That means you can ask for help, have regular breaks, check-in with your teammates, and get to know the people around you. We also have many positions with a 4-day work week, because you should have time to spend with your friends and family.

Breaks, bonuses, and respect are how Red Stag secured one of the highest retention rates for logistics teams in our area throughout the tense, tumultuous year of 2020. That’s because, when you set reasonable expectations and requirements, people show up and do good work. Working conditions for companies in the Knoxville region should only make the news for how positive they are, and that starts with respect and honesty.

Help people surprise you

Warehouse and logistics work can be demanding but incredibly rewarding. These jobs are appealing to some of the most talented and creative people you’ll ever meet. Allow them to share those gifts. Most of the best ideas we’ve had come from people on the floor, telling us how things can be more efficient or safer. Creating a way for people to be heard and acting on those recommendations has made Red Stag Fulfillment a stronger, more resilient company and member of the community.

And, as all of you know, people in Knoxville are always ready to share an innovative idea or say their peace. Let them and listen. It’s what makes this region great. If you’ve got something to share or want to learn more about open positions as we grow in Knoxville and Sweetwater, reach out. Red Stag’s door is always open.

To learn more about working in the fulfillment industry, visit our career page: https://redstagfulfillment.com/careers/