According to Russell, the answer for managers is to look for staff who want something more than just cash, and be flexible in rewarding team members who are after different things.
In particular, Russell says new grads from Generation Y want to be part of a social and fun work environment, which is something he has made a core tenet of Origin’s culture.
“We offer ‘perks’ for staff that not only make Origin an enjoyable workplace, but also reward employees in a way that a salary doesn’t," he adds.
It’s also key the team feels they are part of the overall purpose of the business - something the competitive Russell feels strongly about.
“We update staff constantly via weekly email and a monthly all-staff meeting on the journey that the company is going on - from wins to lessons learned to future events,” he explains.
“It's exciting to be a part of a winning team, and the opportunities that arise for individuals to progress are also exciting.
"And when we achieve big goals, we celebrate as a team - we are currently working as a company towards a big goal, and once we reach this will all be going to Rarotonga for a couple of nights.”
Russell says Origin has worked hard on branding the company to appeal to employees and make them want to work for the company.
“We've formalised our company culture with internal values - IT'S ON; Live IT; Be IT; Own IT - and an internal brand that reflects who we are, which is a mix of pop culture, gaming and Kiwiana,” he explains.
“The tagline ‘IT'S ON’ is not only about reflecting our competitive streak, but it also reminds everybody of our primary purpose: keeping IT on for our customers.”
With these safeguards and plans in place, Russell is confident that his company growth won’t be hampered by a lack of skilled workers.
“Despite New Zealand being a small place, and one that suffers from shortages in many industries, I believe Kiwi companies have the ability to address this issue with some careful planning," he adds.