Nearshoring to Mexico: How to Approach Talent Competition?

As North America embraces the nearshoring trend, Mexico has emerged as a key player in this shift, attracting significant investments and creating a surge in opportunities across regions like Monterrey and Saltillo. With over 100 new investment projects confirmed last year and the arrival of major global brands, the competition for nearshoring talent in Mexico is intensifying. But what does this mean for companies entering the region or already operating there?

To remain competitive, organizations must rethink their approach to talent acquisition and retention, factoring in emerging talent mobility trends and the evolving labor landscape in North America.

The Rising Competition for Nearshoring Talent in Mexico

Monterrey and Saltillo: Nearshoring Hotspots

Monterrey and Saltillo have become magnets for foreign direct investment, solidifying their status as nearshoring hotspots in North America due to their infrastructure and proximity to the U.S. border. However, this boom has led to heightened competition for talent as global companies vie for the same skilled workforce.

Beyond Salaries: What Employees Want

While competitive salaries and rewards packages are essential, they are no longer enough to retain top talent. Employees now prioritize workplace culture, professional development opportunities, and clear communication from leadership. To stand out, companies must position themselves as Employers of Choice, offering a holistic value proposition that goes beyond monetary compensation.

6 Key Pillars for Competing in Mexico's Nearshoring Talent Market

To address the talent competition head-on, companies must focus on strategies for nearshoring talent acquisition that include workplace culture, leadership development, and people analytics.

1. Workplace Culture: Build a positive environment rooted in clear values and open communication.
2. Leadership Development: Train high-level management to lead by example and foster engagement.
3. Employee Engagement: Use regular surveys and feedback loops to understand employee needs and motivations.
4. Training and Growth: Provide training programs to upskill employees, especially in mid-level positions.
5. Compensation and Benefits: Design variable compensation systems tied to performance and results.
6. People Analytics: Leverage data to make informed decisions about recruitment, retention, and workforce planning.

Assessing Your Readiness to Compete for Nearshoring Talent

Before implementing changes, companies must evaluate their internal capabilities and identify areas for improvement. Here are some key questions to ask:

• When was our last labor environment survey?
• Do we have adequate training for mid-level positions?
• Are our compensation systems competitive and flexible?
• Is our leadership aligned with our company’s culture?
• Do we communicate effectively across all levels of the organization?
• Are we using data-driven tools to guide HR decisions?

The Benefits of a Forward-Thinking Approach to Talent Competition

While the growing demand for nearshoring talent presents challenges, it also brings opportunities for companies willing to adapt and innovate. A proactive, people-focused approach can lead to:

• Improved Talent Retention: Employees engaged with your company’s culture are more likely to stay long-term.
• Reduced Recruitment Costs: Mitigating turnover and hiring delays saves time and resources.
• Enhanced Productivity: Satisfied and motivated employees are more productive and aligned with company goals.
• Stronger Employer Branding: Positioning as an Employer of Choice attracts high-caliber candidates.

By focusing on these benefits, companies can not only compete for talent in nearshoring markets but also establish a sustainable foundation for long-term success.

Partner with Prodensa to Win the Talent Competition

At Prodensa, we specialize in helping companies navigate the complexities of nearshoring talent acquisition and retention. From creating a positive workplace culture to implementing people analytics, we provide tailored solutions to transform your company into an Employer of Choice.

Ready to take your nearshoring talent strategy to the next level?

Contact us at consulting@prodensa.com to learn more about how we can support your business in the growing competition for top talent in Mexico.