Act Now!

It’s a fact. Finding qualified workers at all levels is difficult right now. Many things factor into this. Certainly the added stimulus on the unemployment benefits is keeping some portion of the workforce at home. But here in McClean county the unemployment rate is around 5.1%. While not a percentage considered to be near full employment, it is low compared to the rest of the country.  Also, it is clear that a certain number of workers have entirely left the workforce in the last year and, therefore, not represented in the unemployment rate. 

Yet, in the last couple of weeks we have seen some loosening up of the available candidates. Even though the stimulus benefit ends in September, it might be that some of those on unemployment are nearing the end of their benefit period. 

Or, think about this. 

It might be some workers are seeing a golden opportunity to trade up jobs and improve their situation. This is smart thinking. Now is the time. If you don’t like your current position, job, boss, co-worker, office size, parking space, toaster oven in the break room, now is the time to look over the fence at greener pastures. 

Here is what we are seeing: Pay rates are increasing; signing bonuses are being offered; pay to stay bonuses are in play. It’s a seller’s market. 

My advice:

If you are unemployed now, don’t be the last one looking for a job in September when your benefits run out.

If you are currently employed, now is the time to consider trading up jobs.