Why so many unfilled jobs yet high unemployment? For the last few weeks we’ve explored workplace trends for 2013. These have included why companies will offer non-traditional benefits for the younger workforce; how healthcare exchanges will transform employer health benefits; and using social media to attract and keep employees. This week, we’re exploring why so many jobs remain unfilled, when unemployment is so high.
The first reason that comes to mind might be the common belief that too many of our jobs require special skills and we simply don’t have enough American workers with strong science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) training, right? Well, not entirely. Yes, there is a shortage of skilled workers who can write software code or conduct experiments in biotech labs. But a lot of the unfilled jobs (up to a million in some estimates) are in the humdrum, low-tech, truck-driving, semi-skilled manufacturing areas.
So which skills are applicants lacking for these jobs? It turns out they’re “soft” skills. Many employers cite having trouble finding applicants with a work ethic, who are punctual, reliable, and can pass a drug test. They also look for good grammar, spelling and basic interpersonal skills and find applicants falling short –especially younger ones. Some employers say that American workers have become spoiled with generous unemployment benefits and unrealistically high job and pay expectations.
Of course, unemployed workers and workforce experts such as Peter Cappelli, have a different perspective. They say that because so many people are out of work, employers are able to offer low wages, little training, and essentially zero job security; yet they expect better credentials than before. They also bemoan the often impersonal and inefficient application process that relies too heavily on screening software, and leaves applicants in limbo.
I think both sides bring up valid problems that deserve more discussion when we talk about “high unemployment”. Lastly, I would add one more factor to the mix: the reluctance by unemployed workers to relocate to where the jobs are. And who can blame them, with the general uncertainly of the job market, would you relocate if it meant moving away from your support system?
Next week: Why employment relationships include more temporary, leased and contract workers
See excellent reporting on this topic here.
© Copyright Eva Del Rio
