Last week Washington State Employment Security Department released the April Employment report. Grays
Harbor County has risen to 8.9% unemployment rate marking a small increase from the previous month (8.8%) and the first increase after recording a decline in unemployment rate over the course of the first quarter of 2021.

This increase in unemployment contradicts the local, state, and national cry from employers desperate for a workforce.  According to the U.S. Chamber’s America’s Works Report “ There are approximately half as many available workers for every open job (1.4 available workers/opening) across the country as there have been on average over the past 20 years (2.8 historical average)—and the ratio continues to fall.”

Greater Grays Harbor, Inc (GGHI) participated with similar organizations across the country in a survey about local workforce needs. Data shows that the challenges facing economic recovery are very real and pose a threat to the economic health of communities across the country.

As stated in my May CEO report, the reasons that workers are not returning to the workforce is nuanced. Some point to the current unemployment experience that includes extra financial support and the removal of the “job search” requirement and others site lack of childcare options, employees being recalled to an “in-office” presence and in some situations the lack of competitive wages.  Regardless of the reason(s) it all creates uncertainty for the workforce and employers, consequently impacting the recovery of our local economy.

So, what can be done? As a business organization, GGHI is here to support the business community with tools. Everyday I see social media posts announcing job openings.  These positions range from entry level to skilled trades. Employers are offering bonuses and paid trainings and certifications.  However, a social media posting alone is not enough. This is truly the time for workers to get back into the workforce and we have some tools to share with employers to effectively connect with those interested in returning to work.

Active members of GGHI can post job postings, free of charge. These postings show up on our
social media feeds and website. It is a simple process, but you may need staff support to log-in.

Utilize our local employment services experts. Use this link to identify GGHI member firms that specialize in employment services.

Register as an employer with WorkSource and take advantage of the employer tools to help you find talent and become an employer of choice.

Connect with Pac Mountain Business Resources to access tools to hire, train and retain employees.

Understand the resources and tax incentives for employers by visiting Employment Security Department and their specific page about Return to Work.

Do you want to talk more about workforce?  How about the skills you need in your workforce now and in the future?  Let’s talk.  I want to visit your business and learn about what you need from your workforce and how we can support your business through our workforce and education partners.  Contact me directly at lbuffington@graysharbor.org to schedule a site visit and I will bring the coffee!