The challenge of finding employees is real across all aspects of the economy, but is particularly severe for the construction industry, which has seen continued significant growth from low interest rates, stimulus monies, increasing real estate values and pandemic inspired projects. The challenge of finding employees, let alone skilled employees, is likely to continue into the foreseeable future. Construction companies need to adapt to this new normal and offer what employees what they truly want.

As the pandemic continued, employees followed a tremendous burst of economic productivity with feelings of fatigue and burnout. This burn-out became widespread enough to earn the moniker “The Great Resignation.” But perhaps a better title is the “Great Reflection,” as employees do some soul searching, re-examining life priorities and the role of work. This may be one reason why the focus on mental health resources has become a much larger part of employee benefits programs.

Reprinted courtesy of Doug Ramsthel, Construction Executive, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors. All rights reserved.