The current employment landscape in the U.S. is shaped by several critical topics, reflecting ongoing changes and challenges in the workforce. Let’s talk about the three employment topics we’re seeing right now.
Three Current Employment Topics and What They Mean for Business
1. The Great Reshuffle: Initially termed as ‘The Great Resignation,’ this phenomenon saw millions of workers quitting their jobs in 2022 and 2023. The trend has evolved into ‘The Great Reshuffle,’ highlighting a dynamic where high quit rates are matched or exceeded by hiring rates, as workers seek better work-life balance, increased compensation, or stronger company cultures. This reshuffle has impacted industries differently, with leisure and hospitality experiencing high attrition rates, while industries like financial activities and manufacturing show lower quit rates due to their stability and higher pay.
2. Labor Shortage: A significant labor shortage persists, driven by multiple factors including early retirements, an aging workforce, reduced international migration, and a lack of access to childcare. The labor force participation rate has declined, contributing to a mismatch between job openings and available workers. This shortage is widespread, affecting nearly every state and industry, despite more Americans working today than before the pandemic. One of the ways companies are combating this challenge is engaging a contingent workforce to fill the gaps.
3. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): The upcoming changes on a federal level play a pivotal role in shaping the management of the contingent workforce in the United States. The changes to the legislation will greatly impact the segment of the workforce that is made up of temporary, part-time, freelance, and contract workers. The biggest change is that the legislation tightens the definition of an independent contractor. This makes accurate worker classification more important than ever. Misclassification of employees as independent contractors can lead to legal and financial repercussions, underscoring the importance of compliance. Employers must navigate these complexities to manage their contingent workforce effectively, balancing flexibility with compliance to safeguard workers’ rights under the FLSA.
The Bottom Line
The changes in the workforce–from the labor shortage to the FLSA’s impact on contingent workforce management underscores a broader need for employers to stay informed and agile in their labor practices. As the nature of work continues to evolve, accurate worker classification and a focus on compliance remain central to good business practices. Need help navigating? We’re here to help.
