JUNEAU, Alaska — The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released its monthly Jobs Report, revealing that 36% of small business owners reported unfilled job openings in June, a two-point increase from May. Thor Stacey, NFIB Alaska State Director, commented on the report’s findings and highlighted local challenges.
“Adding to the hiring difficulties small businesses are having nationally is Alaska’s home-grown problem of the compliance headaches surrounding the Ballot Measure 1 law now in effect,” said Stacey. He noted that NFIB is working to inform its members about this issue and plans to address any complications it presents.
The NFIB Jobs Report is a national survey that includes responses from small-business owners who typically employ between one and nine people with gross sales around $500,000 annually.
Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB Chief Economist, stated, “Despite the slowing labor market, many small business owners are still looking to attract applicants and hire for their open positions. Compensation pressures remain strong for those owners who are competing to retain and attract talent in their business.”
Key points from the report include:
– 58% of small business owners reported hiring or attempting to hire in June, an increase of three points from May.
– A net 33% of small business owners raised compensation in June, marking a seven-point rise from May and the largest monthly increase since January 2020.
– A net 19% plan to raise compensation in the next three months, which is down by one point from May.
– Job openings were most prevalent in construction, manufacturing, and transportation industries but lowest in finance and agriculture sectors.
For ongoing updates on Alaska’s small-business news, visit www.nfib.com or follow @NFIB_AK on X.
NFIB has been advocating for America’s small businesses for over 80 years across all state capitals and Washington D.C., remaining dedicated exclusively to supporting independent businesses since its founding in 1943.
