The Wall Street Journal reported on January 5 that workers quit their jobs at a record rate in November while job openings remained close to highest-ever levels. As providers know, the US labor market remains very tight.

These are the facts:

• 5 million quit their jobs in November
• The quit rate was 3% up from 2.8%
• There were 6 million job openings at the end of November, a decrease from 11 million in October
• 5 million people are unemployed
• There are only two workers for every three positions
• None of this data incudes the more recent period effected by Omicron
• Industries bearing the brunt are retail, leisure, hospitality, healthcare and social assistance
• Healthcare workers are also quitting due to stress from COVID

Another part of the problem is millions of workers have dropped out of the labor force. Labor force participation – the percentage of the working age population employed or seeking employment is down to 61.8% from 63.4% prior to COVID. Some workers have retired (taken Social Security early), others face child-care issues, or remain too fearful of COVID due to underlying health issues.

What do workers want?

• Higher pay 
• More flexibility and less exposure to COVID

This may explain why providers with in-home services have been less effected than providers with group homes. In-home services are delivered one-on-one often with flexible schedules. Group homes created more exposure to others and schedules are more fixed.

Need help with hiring? Download the myApplicants fact sheet to learn more.