An empty locker on a construction job site that could use a staffing solution.

Considering A Staffing Solution

Predicting When Labor Unrest Will Subside and Considering a Staffing Solution

January 31, 2022

A Staffing Solution Available Across North America

A staffing solution can be a life-saver for any employer facing a critical labor shortage. Industries of all kinds are facing the hard truth that labor unrest in North America is likely to continue. As the demand for workers reaches new heights, millions of North American workers have opted for early retirement or simply exited the workforce entirely. Citing fears of contracting COVID, new parental childcare responsibilities, or simply being unhappy with their previous job, this extremely complex issue often referred to as “the great resignation” has yet to be solved.

Today industries have had to rethink their approach to recruitment, adjusting their offerings in an effort to entice workers to come back to the job site. During these difficult times, temporary workforces have played an integral role in addressing many issues, including complicated strikes, lockouts, walk-offs, and widespread absenteeism.

Staffing solution required for this empty warehouse.

Find Answers to Common Questions for Business Owners

Find answers to the most common questions regarding global labor unrest tailored specifically to business owners.

When Will Labor Unrest in North America Subside?

The unfortunate truth is that there is no end in sight to the labor complications in North America. There simply isn’t a determined “end date” for these issues across the world. Absenteeism, walk-offs, and strikes are set to be increasingly more common in 2022.

As for when business leaders can expect the economy to return to normal, one can only hope that when COVID case numbers subside, life will return to normal.

Is the Pandemic Causing North America’s Labor Shortage?

The pandemic has been the main driver behind much of the labor issues facing businesses today. Many workers have had to self-isolate due to contracting or being exposed to COVID-19, shift their responsibilities to care for their children or elderly parents, or have relied on expanded unemployment benefits. In addition, many workers within the service industry have felt that they have been treated poorly and are seeking new careers instead of returning to their previous roles.

What is the Great Resignation?

Historically, worker shortages have been tied to other economic downturns such as the Great Depression and the 2008 Financial Crisis. Many workers were laid off during these times and rethought their approach to work, exploring different fields and being far more selective in their job search.

A similar event has occurred in North America, where many workers are opting to refrain from returning to the job site for a number of reasons. Financial stimulus packages, extensive unemployment benefits, death, and early retirement have prompted what has been known as the “great resignation,” where many entry-level general workers have begun to explore more opportunities in the current job market.

What Are Some of the Statistics Behind North America’s Labor Shortage?

The Census Bureau of the Household Pulse surveyed thousands of unemployed workers in an attempt to determine the specific reasons for the labor shortage. “Not wanting to work” accounted for just 5% of respondents, with early retirement being the main reason. In fact, throughout the pandemic, 2021 saw 1.5 million more people retire than expected.

Which Industries Are Experiencing the Most Labor Shortages?

Today, many industries should be planning for labor disruptions and worker shortages, especially from unionized workforces. Supply chain issues need support from entry-level workers more than ever.

These industries are expected to have the most challenges in 2022:

Warehouse, logistics, trucking driving, cargo, and other transportation industries
The healthcare and emergency services industry, including nurses, doctors, paramedics, and general labor staff at hospitals and healthcare facilities
Fast food, grocery, and retail
Hospitality, including hotels, airlines, resorts, cleaning staff, and service sectors
Manufacturing, including construction, roofing, and maintenance staff
Private and publicly funded education systems
Gasoline, mining, natural gas, and other precious metal industries

How Can Business Owners Manage Labor Complications with a Staffing Solution?

Temporary workers, or “temp workers,” are one of the many ways that business owners can address labor shortages in their industry. In the event of a problematic strike or walk-off, temporary labor forces can step in to address short-term complications. Further, temporary workforces can provide relief to overworked staff members and assist with surges in demand. Temporary workers can help manage productivity during complicated strikes and union negotiations.

Look to 2024 For Staffing Solutions That Bring Ease to Labor Shortages

Explore a Staffing Solution From AFIMAC Global

AFIMAC Global is suited to address staffing and worker shortages related to strikes, labor negotiations, walk-offs, absenteeism, and worker shortages in any industry, big or small. Temporary workers supplied by AFIMAC can be dispatched quickly, offering solutions to supply chain disruptions that can challenge productivity and harm your bottom line.

By maintaining a directory of highly skilled laborers, AFIMAC can address long-term strikes or labor shortages with temporary workers even in remote job sites. These temporary workers provide a solution to challenges related to your supply chain or industry, helping to ease issues of absenteeism that have arisen post-pandemic.

Find a staffing solution to many different issues including worker strikes and labor shortages. AFIMAC can partner directly with business leaders to plan for and manage labor disputes or work stoppages before they ever begin. Reach out to us directly by filling out the form below and speak with an AFIMAC representative. Contact us now for more information.