The Changing Landscape of Labor Costs, Unemployment, Mental Health, and Disability Accommodations

As the economy, business practices, and global current events develop over time, significant changes in workplaces worldwide are unavoidable. Whether you’re an entry-level employee, a business owner, or a CEO, these developing situations in human resources are likely to have some effect on your experience at work. As such, it’s essential to keep abreast of trends in this field.

Many workplace norms are being challenged, such as the responsibilities of employers, the relationships between employers and employees, and the definition of a workspace.

Below, we’ve compiled some of the highlights for your convenience. Read on for four of the most important human resources news stories trending now.

Employers Face Record Increase in Labor Costs

Due to the recent dearth of available workers contributing to the labor force, employers have had to offer steep incentives to hire new recruits. Many companies have had to increase wages, benefits, and other hiring costs to a significant degree to attract new laborers to do their work.

According to the United States Department of Labor, the overall labor cost as measured by the Employment Cost Index has increased by the largest percentage since 2001. Employers are certainly not thrilled with the financial implications on their part, but these changes are a huge step forward for workers in terms of earning fair compensation for their labor.

Unemployment Claims Appear to be On the Decline

As a result of the global situation that rendered so many individuals unable to work throughout 2020, that period saw immense numbers of unemployment claims. However, recent statistics indicate that this situation is improving as more and more people return to the labor force. Additionally, some sectors are adding new jobs.

As of the end of November 2021, the statistics reflecting the number of workers receiving aid through unemployment benefits have reduced by 20 million individuals since the same time in 2020. Not only that, but the number of unemployment claims is now lower than it has been in over 50 years.

Employers Encouraged to Continue Providing Comprehensive Mental Health Support

During the past year, many people have felt the need to be more attentive towards their mental health needs. In response, many employers have taken the initiative to provide support through benefits and company policies. However, as time goes on, many business owners have slid back into their old ways of not prioritizing these resources.

In light of this, plenty of human resources professionals are encouraging employers to continue providing mental health support. One of the main arguments in favor of this position is that employees who have their needs addressed are more likely to perform efficiently. It provides a business incentive for employers to prioritize mental health services and accommodations.

 

Technological Advancements Offer Easy Accommodations for Workers with Disabilities

As working from home continues to be the norm in many industries, many employees with disabilities have found it easier to do their jobs thanks to the accommodations permitted by remote work. But making work more accessible to those who need it doesn’t stop there.

Thanks to the work of diligent software engineers, there is now a multitude of digital tools that can assist workers with disabilities, including but not limited to visual and hearing impairments. Employers are now more than ever encouraged to ensure that their websites and online tools comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines set forth by experts and developers in the field.

Conclusion

These are the most important trending human resources news stories for the current moment, but HR is a quickly changing field. Keep an eye on this news topic s we work to keep you abreast of future developments.