The economy is getting better every day, but unfortunately, most employers are still having trouble hiring. And across the United States, the ever-increasing challenge of filling essential roles is leaving companies across all sectors with serious staffing shortages. If you’re having trouble filling key roles in your organization, filling orders and meeting goals can seem like insurmountable feats. But instead of lamenting the situation and trying what you always have, understanding the complexities of the shortage can help you get the help you need.

In this post from the technical and engineering recruiters at One Tech Engineering in Minnesota, we’re taking a closer look at some of the key reasons hiring is a challenge today. To connect with our recruiters and fill your staffing shortages right away, give One Tech a call.

Understanding the Causes

At first blush, the experts may seem to be at odds over the leading causes behind the hiring challenges most employers are facing right now. But in reality, the issue seems so complicated because there are so many different complex factors at play, all converging to create the perfect storm. Understanding what you’re up against is the key to hacking this crisis.

Here are three things employers need to know about the reasons behind the employment shortage:

1.    Unemployment benefits likely aren’t to blame.

Unemployment benefits are an easy scapegoat these days, especially in the wake of the pandemic benefits issued in 2020 and 2021. But in reality, those extended pandemic benefits ended in September of last year. And in most states, regular employment benefits have stringent requirements and a six-month limit.

There is an argument to be made that giving unemployed workers time off to regroup during the pandemic gave workers more leverage when they returned to the workforce. However, ultimately, other factors play a bigger role.

2.    Pandemic concerns are still playing a role.

Experts have been warning about the effect of Boomer retirement on the labor market for years. When the pandemic hit, many older working Americans decided that continuing to work simply wasn’t worth the risk, opting to retire early. According to Axios, upwards of 3 million Baby Boomers took early retirement during the pandemic. As their jobs opened up, other workers shifted into their roles, leaving a vacuum in lower-wage openings. One way some employers are combating this aspect of the Great Resignation is to offer more flexible work opportunities including remote work and split time options, making it less risky for older Americans to stay on the job.

3.    There’s a skillset gap.

According to The Economist, a big part of the problem stems from a lack of worker qualifications in skilled positions. Employers want to attract workers with a specific combination of hard and soft skills, but there’s a shortage of human resources that fit the bill. One way to meet those needs is to offer opportunities for new hires that include training and paths to certifications. Working with a recruitment company can also help connect you with the right people for the job.

Get the Workers You Need Now With Help From One Tech

Are you tired of running short-staffed? Call One Tech’s engineering and technical recruiters to get connected with the professionals you’ve been waiting for. From structural designer jobs to electrical engineering jobs, we can help you fill your employment needs. Give our technical recruiters a call at 952.884.9199, or contact us online today.