Workforce Challenges
At times, it feels like we’re the only organization struggling with workforce challenges. But after speaking with colleagues, it’s clear this is an epidemic affecting businesses across industries. The question remains: What is going on?
Rising inflation forces business owners to offer wages that aren’t sustainable, leaving both employers and employees frustrated. We provide fair wages, health insurance, and PTO, yet employees remain dissatisfied—some even leave without notice.
Additionally, younger workers often struggle with constructive criticism, sometimes reacting with retaliation rather than growth. Respect for authority and workplace accountability seems to be fading.
In addition, the skyrocketing cost of education has left Millennials and Gen Z burdened with overwhelming debt, creating financial pressures that make job stability even more challenging.
How do we bridge this gap and build a more reliable, committed workforce? Employers are not responsible for the cost of higher education or the rising cost of living. Yet, many employees demand wages based on their financial needs rather than the value of the work performed.
This disconnect puts businesses in a difficult position—balancing fair compensation with financial sustainability. How can we shift the conversation to focus on work ethic, skill development, and job value rather than just wage expectations?
It’s a challenge that needs a solution, but where do we start?
Work for a cause you believe in, and let the mission and purpose of an organization be part of your job satisfaction. When job fulfillment is tied solely to a paycheck, both employees and employers become disillusioned.
The Tiny Home movement and alternative living arrangements reduce financial strain, allowing for more flexibility, work-life balance, and even a four-day workweek. However, the days of working 40 hours a week and easily affording a home are gone. Homeownership now requires dual incomes at best, and saving for a down payment while managing college debt is nearly impossible for many.
Employers can’t fix the cost of living or shoulder the burden of student loans, and small businesses especially can’t sustain wages designed to cover every financial hardship. The best way to set yourself up for success is to understand the job expectations and wages upfront, ensuring they align with your needs and goals.
Being realistic about financial expectations and focusing on job purpose, stability, and growth opportunities benefits both employees and employers in the long run.
