Workers Matter… Finally

Empowered employees have certainly owned the spotlight in recent news. Many folks have endured the burden of long hours, unpleasant conditions, and insufficient wages for their entire career.  Things changed in the past two years. Many workers were able to stay at home and reconsider what they wanted to do next. They want their fair share of the pie.  Since December of 2020, nominal wages and salaries were up 4.5 percent, the fastest increase since 1983.  Unemployment has dropped to 3.9 percent. This is the lowest number since pre-pandemic February 2020. On top of that, the American economy is struggling with the “Great Resignation.”  Employees are quitting in record numbers to take a more desirable job. This rapid quitting and hiring cycle is expected to continue in 2022.

Job Seekers are Embracing the Power Shift

Job seekers have more choices now than they’ve had in decades. They are in the perfect situation to demand better treatment from employers. Why settle for an “unacceptable” work environment? Why hang around to get that next raise?  There are so many options out there today.

It will have been a great boost for those employees who found a more satisfying job.  For others, the new empowerment means they can quit without notice. They can seek many job interviews and only show up for the most promising.  They can start a job and quit after a day.

Respect, Reputation, and Shifting Tides

Besides the absence of civility and respect, a day of reckoning will surely come. The pandemic won’t last forever. The tide will turn and when it does, it is crucial to have all bridges intact.  Most employees will still be seeking new jobs in the same labor market where they left employers hanging.  They will be needing work references.  Employers keep records for just such a purpose.  Civility and respect are two key measures of past work performance.

However, ABLE Associates has been successfully riding the waves for over thirty years as the local tides have shifted from layoffs to talent shortages. We are dedicated to helping our clients and employees navigate, thrive, and meet or exceed their goals in any job climate.

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