Guilford Works PY2021-22 Annual Report

G R E A T R E S I G N A T I O N

Survey F inds Poor Work-Li fe Ba l ance and Low Wages Keep Peopl e f rom Seek ing Employment The tumult of the COVID-19 pandemic gave way to record numbers of people leaving the workforce entirely or resigning positions. In early 2022, Guilford County had more than 50,000 job openings – and many businesses and organizations reported having difficulty filling them. To better understand people’s unique motivations and concerns in returning to the workforce, GuilfordWorks conducted the Great Resignation survey from February 15 to March 31. Of the 69 respondents, 29 percent were unemployed and 69 percent were seeking a career change. When asked to elaborate on hesitations or challenges they faced in returning to work, the most common response was that employers generally offer little to no work-life balance. More than half of respondents said poor flexibility or work-life balance was a factor in their return to work decisions. Many respondents said they felt over-worked and under-appreciated in the workplace and considered a career change to get more flexibility and remote work options. “Companies need to do a better job of hybrid and work-from-home schedules. People want good work-life balance, want to avoid commutes, and be trusted,” one respondent said. Another common concern was that available positions did not provide a livable wage and benefits. More than half of respondents said insufficient compensation and benefits was a contributing factor in not returning to work. Many respondents expressed concerns about employers were only hiring for part-time positions, but job seekers needed benefits and full-time work to live comfortably.

THE GREAT RESIGNATION Guilford County job seekers sound off on returning to the workplace.

WORK STATUS

Are not actively looking for work 29.1 % Are currently unemployed 31.2 %

Are currently seeking work or a career change 60.8 % 68.8 % Are working

27.0 % Expressed dissatisfaction with working conditions and/or compensation.

Employed and Happy 15.7%

26.5%

Currently � Unemploye d 30.6%

Exploring other � career pathways 11.6%

Working fewer hours � or making less income 5.8%

In school 1.3%

Other 8.2%

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS

Concerns about COVID exposure/safe working conditions 65 and older or considered high risk by the CDC Living with someone who is high risk Childcare or caretaker needs Unqualified or do not have the necessary training Overqualified or unappealing work Insufficient compensation, benefits, or incentives Poor flexibility or work/life balance Waiting on a job offer from a different employer Actively interviewing but have not received a job offer

23.2%

4.6%

7.6%

14.8%

17.3%

27.4%

53.2%

52.3%

5.1%

20.7%

Other income sources, no financial pressure Currently receiving unemployment insurance Other (Please Explain)

11.8%

1.7%

17.3%

0

50

100

150

WORKER MINDSET

14