the economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, small business owners across the country are struggling to find workers to fill open positions. This labor shortage has been attributed to a variety of factors, including expanded unemployment benefits, COVID-19 concerns, and a lack of available childcare.
According to a recent survey conducted by the National Federation of Independent Business, 44% of small business owners reported having job openings that they were unable to fill. This is the highest percentage in the survey’s 48-year history.
Many small business owners are having to get creative in their recruitment efforts. Some are offering hiring bonuses or increased wages, while others are turning to social media platforms or hiring agencies for assistance.
The labor shortage is having a significant impact on small businesses, with some having to reduce operating hours or even close temporarily due to a lack of staff. This is particularly challenging for businesses in the hospitality and service industries, which have been hit hard by the pandemic.
Some experts predict that the labor shortage may persist for some time, as workers are hesitant to return to low-paying jobs that offer little in the way of benefits or job security. Small business owners will need to adapt to these challenges by finding new ways to attract and retain workers, or risk being left behind in an increasingly competitive market.