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Workforce Remains the Top Challenge for Small Business
While economic headlines often focus on inflation, interest rates, and national politics, many small business owners continue to face a more immediate challenge: finding and retaining qualified employees.
According to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), labor quality remains one of the top concerns among small business owners. In recent surveys, business owners consistently identified workforce challenges among their most significant barriers to growth. Many employers report difficulty finding qualified applicants, while others are focused on retaining experienced employees in an increasingly competitive labor market.
The conversation around workforce has shifted in recent years. Businesses are no longer competing solely on wages. Employees are looking for opportunities for professional growth, workplace culture, flexibility, leadership development, and long-term career pathways.
This trend reinforces the importance of strong partnerships between employers, schools, CareerTech centers, higher education institutions, and workforce development organizations. Communities that invest in workforce development today are positioning themselves for stronger economic growth tomorrow.
For local businesses, workforce planning should extend beyond the next hiring need. Developing future talent through internships, apprenticeships, leadership development, mentorship, and employee training can help create a stronger pipeline of workers while improving retention and organizational culture.
Here in Shawnee and Pottawatomie County, we are fortunate to have strong workforce partners helping prepare the next generation of talent. Our public schools, Oklahoma Baptist University, and Gordon Cooper Technology Center play a vital role in equipping students and workers with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed in today's workforce. From technical training and industry certifications to internships, career exploration, and leadership development opportunities, these institutions help bridge the gap between education and employment.
The most successful workforce strategies begin long before a position is posted. They start when employers engage with students, support workforce development initiatives, provide meaningful learning opportunities, and invest in the growth of their current employees. By working together, businesses, educators, and community leaders can help ensure our region has the talent needed to support continued growth and economic success.
As you think about your organization's workforce needs over the next five years, consider how you can become part of the solution. Whether through mentorship, internships, job shadowing, advisory boards, or employee development programs, every business has an opportunity to help strengthen the workforce pipeline. Together, we can build a stronger talent base, create more opportunities for our residents, and ensure our businesses have the workforce they need to thrive.
-Daniel
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