People that live in the mountains want to stay in the mountains…
- didn’t move here for the job (most likely)
- will perform better at the job if the benefits reflect why they live here (consider some powder days … an extended lunch scheduled in every couple of weeks for a hike or bike break)
- are not going to accept the really low wages anymore (the 70’s are over)
- feel that their quality of life in the mountains is worth compromising certain modern conveniences.
Job seekers looking to move to a ski town
- have had enough of being a weekend warrior
- lived in a ski town for a season or two and have never stopped thinking about coming back
- are outdoor enthusiasts looking for a small town in a safe and healthy environment.
- are aware of the costs and are already researching housing options (we hope)
Those who have never considered a ski town but came across an ad on a large generic job board that starts something like this, “move to paradise…”
- will think the job sounds incredibly cool until you give them the salary and the cost of housing, say “thanks but no thanks”, and probably think you are nuts.
- don’t really care that they can ski at lunch
- wonder why things are happening so slowly
- ask about life outside of work; wonder “what do people do here?”(my favorite) and “how long does the winter really last?”.
These are just a sampling of the comments I have received from job seekers. There are no guarantees for when and where you will find your next best employee as it takes a diverse recruiting approach for any employer, anywhere, but regardless of the approach, a firm grasp of your target market will certainly help you along the way. Employees who will likely stick around longer not only are specifically looking to make their home in a ski town, but (the good ones) will work harder and respect you more if you in return recognize (like yourself) that they choose to live in a ski town for the wonderfully unique lifestyle it offers. How many locales have the mountains at their doorstep? Probably a good idea to give them some time to get out and enjoy ‘em!