Retail holiday forecast.
As the holidays approach, consumers and employers are beginning to look at predicting factors like the September Retail Report to determine potential changes in the economy and employment. Some experts and larger companies are predicting slight growth during the holiday season, while some are anticipating numbers similar to or worse than last year.
Impact on the workforce
Be proactive and stay open-minded.
Large scale discount chains will be adding employees for the holiday season, but certainly not as many as past years. Job seekers putting in early applications will benefit from getting the first opportunities. Open scheduling in a variety of industries will also be an attractive asset in the hiring process.
Impact on employers
Review your holiday hiring timeline.
A flexible workforce will allow the number of employees to shift with need and demand. Retail numbers may determine whether holiday hiring begins in October, or closer to December.
Graying of the workforce.
As the recession impacts the retirement plans of Baby Boomers, analysts are predicting a “graying” workforce with a rise in the average worker’s age.
Impact on the workforce
A shift in the workforce.
With Baby Boomers and mature workers staying in the job market longer, some experts are predicting that the workplace of the future will feature more mature workers with institutional knowledge to coach younger workers. This could help alleviate the impending brain drain of the future.
Impact on employers
Capitalize on employee assets.
Focusing on the positive attributes of Baby Boomers and mature employees can serve as a huge benefit in the workplace. By tapping in to their years of knowledge and experience, mature workers can build the skill sets of more junior employees; junior employees can also expand the knowledge base of more seasoned employees in areas such as technology.
Reduction in state and local jobs.
Recently, state and local governments have been reducing their workforce numbers as a result of tight budgets.
Impact on the workforce
The government sector continues to see growth.
While some will lose their jobs as a result of budget downsizing, it’s important to keep in mind that the government sector overall, has continued to see job growth throughout the recession. Stimulus money is still making its way to local projects, so it will be important to continue to watch this.
Impact on employers
Consider project based employment.
A large amount of government contracts can be project-based. By choosing to hire employees to fulfill project work, this will allow you to easily staff up or down, based on the amount of work.
