Poll Finds Labor Shortage Worsening for Small Businesses

March 8, 2022

Nearly two out of three small businesses (65%) reported they are struggling to hire employees, up 5% from January, according to the March Labor Shortage Poll from Alignable.

The poll of 6,192 small business owners conducted from February 19 to March 3 found 43% report it is significantly more difficult to hire people now, compared to 38% who reported significant difficulty in hiring in January. The latest poll also found 71% needed to pay higher wages to attract workers, up from 11% from January. 

The states experiencing the most difficulty in hiring include California and New Jersey, with 71% of small businesses in both states struggling to find employees. Other states where businesses are experiencing labor shortages include:

  • Pennsylvania, with 69% of small businesses struggling to hire
  • Ohio at 68%
  • Texas at 65%.

The state with the largest labor shortage increase was Ohio, which jumped 11% over January’s figure.

 

Tags

Latest Articles

hotel
November 9, 2026 Elizabeth Christenson

The BSC Blueprint Examines Top Trends, Tech & Challenges

November 9, 2026 Jennifer Bender

Prioritize Consistency in Your Cleaning Program

November 6, 2026

Every Breath Counts

Sponsored Articles

Every Breath Counts
November 6, 2026

Every Breath Counts

October 26, 2026

Better Wiping Products Start with Sellars

October 23, 2026

What Is Cleaning Really Costing You?

Recent News

waiting for a restroom

5 Tips to Prepare High-Traffic Restrooms for the Holiday Season

Cleaning Industry Priorities Hold Steady After the 2026 Midterms

Infant Death in Wisconsin Related to Ongoing Measles Outbreak