Fast recovery in the Portland area last year placed the region in the top ten metro areas for job growth, with Oregon sixth out of all states. While the creation of new opportunities was largely in response to the slump of 2020, around a third of the job growth was due to an overall strengthening of the local economy which has had enough momentum to continue throughout 2022. Despite a rise in the number of available positions, Oregon’s unemployment rate hit an almost record low earlier in the year and a shortage of workers could affect economic growth in Portland. While more jobs means that those seeking work are in a stronger position to find employment, it’s still important to ensure access to a wide range of suitable positions that match the skills and interests of candidates. Giving back to the community through volunteering for a non-profit organization can open up new job opportunities, while engaging employee training programs help to retain skilled staff who are then empowered to meet their potential at work.
Attracting and Retaining High Quality Staff
Organizations in Oregon are having to adapt their administrative processes post-pandemic in order to meet their employees’ evolving needs and expectations, without compromising on productivity. While employers face new workplace phenomena including the Great Resignation and Quiet Quitting, a greater emphasis has been placed on the successful recruitment and retention of high-quality workers. Automated and streamlined administrative processes help to support employees and ensure they stay connected even when working remotely. At the same time, regular assessments of employee training programs ensure that employees enjoy a positive experience within the organization. Through staff observation, performance reviews and quizzes to test levels of knowledge, employers can ensure they hire and keep the best candidates who learn the skills they need and are ultimately more fulfilled in their role.
Exploring Different Career Paths as a Student
Earlier this year, figures from the Oregon Employment Department not only showed a fall in the unemployment rate but also an increase in nonfarm jobs of over 80,000. Over a third of these new opportunities were in the leisure industry, the fastest growing sector up to May 2021. This statewide situation is reflected at the University of Portland where dozens of student jobs, many in hospitality roles, are currently unfilled and students are being encouraged to take up a job in order to gain work experience. As well as providing a welcome income through good hourly rates or stipends, a range of jobs on campus, from barista to an elected member of the Executive Board, offer students a break from their studies, the opportunity to learn new skills and the chance to explore different career paths.
Enhancing a Job Search Through Volunteering
Like undertaking part-time work as a student, volunteering can be a great starting point for a new career, and a good way to enhance a job search or resume. As well as offering the opportunity to give back to the community, volunteering provides the chance to learn new skills and network with other like-minded people. Opportunities in East Portland range from a few hours helping with a short-term project to longer term skilled work that offers more in depth involvement. The Portland Workforce Alliance combines volunteering opportunities with supporting young people and helping students to make informed career choices on leaving education. This involves teaching them interview techniques, resume writing and best practices for networking and job searches.
Improving Access to Suitable Opportunities
As more work opportunities become available, it’s essential to ensure that all East Portland residents have equal access to suitable jobs. Non-profit organizations such as Oregon’s Vocational Rehabilitation, and Relay Resources in Portland, help individuals with disabilities to find meaningful jobs to match their abilities, skills and interests. Improving physical access to workplaces is also important, and residents of all abilities in East Portland could benefit from improved infrastructure that allows them to safely travel around the region. Work currently being undertaken by Portland’s Bureau of Transportation aims to create safer routes and better connections to work for its residents. Investment of over $26 million in East Portland is helping to fund projects that will give greater access to business districts, employment hubs and small businesses by enhancing transportation routes for all types of road users including cyclists and pedestrians.
A rebound in Portland’s economy has resulted in job growth and a drop in the rates of unemployment over the past year. There are plenty of opportunities available for volunteers, students and workers, especially in the hospitality industry. While this is great news for anyone looking for their first job or a new position, employers will need to improve their retention rates if they want to ensure their workers are satisfied in their roles and fulfilling their potential at work.
