’I can only see the advantages’
Foreign labour can be an important solution to Bornholm’s labour challenges. Here, director and CEO Jacob Dam shares experiences from the bakery, Johannes Dam & Son.
Bornholm is in a challenging period where a wave of experienced workers is leaving the labour market, while there are not enough young candidates to fill their shoes. This demographic imbalance threatens to cast a shadow over Bornholm's progressive development on several fronts.
To tackle this challenge, local businesses such as Johannes Dam & Søn have long been aware of a potential solution. Six years ago, the bakery took the initiative to collaborate with the Jobcentre's business service to give a refugee from Eritrea the opportunity for a work placement. The intern in question has since been taken on permanently, and over time, one of the employees' friends, also a refugee, has joined them.
– We have a biscuit production line that does not necessarily require skilled labour. Here we have experienced time and time again how Danish employees have not felt challenged. Conversely, our foreign employees appreciate completely different things about the job, says the company’s director, Jacob Dam.
Although there were initially language barriers, the company has successfully supported employees in improving their Danish skills.
– I’ve made an effort to communicate in Danish with them, even though we can of course also resort to English, but they don't learn anything from that, says the director. – Among other things, I’ve spent time outside the working day talking to the employees about everything from their culture to their favourite football clubs. I’ve also learned a bit of their language.
This effort has not only strengthened communication, but also contributed to creating a more inclusive working environment.
About Johannes Dam & Søn
Johannes Dam & Søn is a modern bakery business with roots going back to 1855. The bakery has been producing biscuits since 1924, which are referred to, among other things, as ”Bornholm biscuits” and ”the well-known Bornholm rye biscuits”. The bakery also exports rye biscuits to large parts of the world. See more at bagerdam.dk
– Of course there are some cultural differences that you need to be aware of. Especially in the beginning, he explains. – For example, the employees, both Christian Orthodox, were not used to taking orders from women, so they had to get used to that.
However, Jacob Dam does not hesitate to encourage other businesses to open their doors to foreign labour.
– Both employees are extremely competent, rarely off sick, make reasonable demands and are punctual. However, you have to be 100 percent committed to the project, which can require extra attention at times. For example, my foreign employees need extra-long holidays because their families are scattered all over the world, but that can be planned around.
– On the other hand, the effort gives an incredible amount back the other way. Not only in terms of reliable labour; the diversity enriches our working environment significantly. For example, we also have three flexi-jobbers who are doing well with us and have a very positive attitude to their work – that is, of course, wonderful for the entire workplace, he continues.
How do you, as a leader, ensure that diversity thrives in practice?
– At our place, showing an interest in one another is a core value. It creates a deep human connection when everyone brings different perspectives and experiences to the work. – Whether you come from another country, have a mental illness or something else entirely, it is important always to show and acknowledge that everyone is part of the team.
– We value commitment and expect you to take an interest in your colleagues. No one is to be parked at the assembly line with the expectation that they just stand there and mind their own business. And if there is an opportunity to help them with small things outside of work, especially when they are new to the country, it is an incredibly rewarding experience. I can only see the benefits of such an approach.
BY TINA TOFT MØLLER
4 good pieces of advice
For smaller businesses like Johannes Dam & Son can all changes be more visible than in larger organisations. This places increased demands on good planning and cooperation. Director Jacob Dam is therefore in no doubt when he advises others to consider the following if they employ foreign labour:
- Identify the correct competencies:
Although the company does not necessarily require skilled labour, it is crucial to hire employees who have the relevant skills and ability to do the job effectively.
- Collaborate with local resources:
Jobcentres and local resources can be invaluable in finding suitable candidates and helping to ease the transition for new employees. This can be, for example, through work placement schemes and language courses.
- Communication and cultural understanding:
It is important to be aware of any language barriers and cultural differences. Companies can offer language courses or create an environment where employees feel welcome and included.
- Flexibility and recognition:
Recognising employees' individual needs and wishes is crucial. This can include allowing longer holiday periods to visit family in their home country.