Last month, the unemployment rate held steady at 3.8%, a surprising achievement considering the challenges many thought COVID-19 posed, particularly for the nonprofit sector.
Post-pandemic, nonprofit workforces, particularly in trade associations, have not only recovered but in some cases, surpassed 2019 employment levels. As these organizations grow, they face various staffing hurdles with over 50% reporting more positions open than pre-pandemic. Here are some of my observations and suggestions on the challenge of staffing:
Rise of Innovation: The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has empowered industries to optimize processes internally and with stakeholder interactions. This shift enables employees to focus more on vital tasks, such as nurturing relationships with supporters and members, while AI handles time-consuming tasks like assembling files which it can do in minutes. It's crucial to assess the implementation of new technologies carefully to ensure continued high-quality and accurate outcomes.
Technical Positions: Research indicates a decline in students pursuing degrees in technical fields such as engineering and information technology. Although these roles don't make up a large portion of nonprofit and trade association's workforce, they are essential for securing data and providing specialized knowledge. It is important for companies to address the shortage in technical roles by providing competitive pay, benefits, and work-life balance opportunities.
Quality Candidates: Many industries are not only facing a talent shortage but also a lack of quality applicants. LinkedIn research indicates that for 2024, talent acquisition will increasingly focus on candidate quality as fit and culture are becoming primary elements in hiring. Luckily, experienced recruiters are adept at identifying these soft qualities in applicants, determining their suitability early in the recruitment process.
Our Recommendation to Nonprofits:
Work directly with a seasoned talent acquisition specialists. There are numerous advantages: finding highly qualified candidates who align with your workplace requirements, eliminating the need to sift through resumes, and saving you time and money!