Employment trends expert weighs in

Job numbers from Friday reflect the final full month of President Obama’s presidency, and experts say they are disappointing and not what they should have been. Now, as Americans look to the future, they wonder what Trump’s presidency means for jobs.

Rob Wilson, President of Employco USA and employment trends expert says, “Several industries expect to see a surge in growth under President Trump. This includes the pharmaceutical industry, the construction industry, as well as the industries of oil, coal, gas, and more.”

What should unemployed and underemployed Americans expect from Trump’s entrance into the White House?

“Huge corporations such as Wal-Mart and Ford Motor Company have said that President Trump has encouraged them to grow and expand, and to focus on production in the United States rather than overseas. Meanwhile, small business optimism has soared since his victory, as many are hopeful for lower taxes and a solution to the healthcare problem. This will only mean continued employment growth across the board.”

For more on this topic, please contact Rob Wilson at rwilson@thewilsoncompanies.com.

Employment expert says wage increases could be problematic

Over 20 states are going to implement an increase in minimum wage in 2017. Estimates say that this means over 4.4 million workers will be looking at a raise, but critics fear it will come at a severe cost for businesses.

Rob Wilson, president of Employco USA and employment trends expert says, “Past numbers show that increasing the minimum wage has a direct and negative impact not only on businesses, but on workers themselves. Research by economists Jeffrey Clemens and Michael Wither of the University of California-San Diego showed that minimum wage increases were responsible for 14 percent of the job losses suffered between 2006 and 2012.”

Furthermore, Wilson says, only 1.8 percent of Americans earn minimum wage.

Wilson explains, “The reality is that most companies endeavor to pay a competitive wage to lure talent and ensure employee loyalty. However, certain positions (such as retail and hospitality) have a very thin margin of profit. These employers can only afford to pay workers minimum wage if they want to stay profitable and remain in businesses. An increase hits their businesses hard, which is why so many people have actually lost their jobs due to the minimum wage increases across the country.”

There is another downside as well.

“Traditionally, minimum wage jobs have been employment opportunities for young adults and those first entering the workforce. When these jobs are reduced, teens and other inexperienced workers suffer as a result.”

However, Wilson says that minimum wage increases could come under attack from Andrew Puzder, President Trump’s pick for Secretary of Labor. “Pudzer is known for being against the minimum wage hike. After we see the impact of these increases across the country, I expect that Pudzer will make steps to change our current course.”

For more on this topic, please contact Rob Wilson at rwilson@thewilsoncompanies.com.

Employment expert explains what adaptations might be needed for employees with autism and other disorders

It is estimated that over 3.5 million Americans have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although varying in degree, individuals with ASD can require several modifications to the workplace.

Rob Wilson, President of Employco USA, “The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not only protect Americans with physical challenges, but also those who have conditions such as autism, Asperger Syndrome and other developmental disorders. It is crucial that companies work to make their workplaces welcoming to all of their employees.”

Here, Wilson outlines steps that companies should take to make their workplaces ASD-friendly:

1. Be aware that an individual cannot be penalized for behavior out of their control. “For example,” says Wilson, “some people with ASD might grunt or make repetitive motions with their hands or body. If this makes other employees uncomfortable or interrupts their work, do not move the employee with ASD or force him to make modifications. Instead, try to find another solution, such as allowing the use of headphones or asking the distracted employee to move desks.”
2. Have a ‘quiet’ space. “A designated quiet place where employees can retreat during the day can do wonders for mental health, especially those with developmental disorders. Make the room dark and quiet, and have a sign-in sheet that will allow employees to use the room for short breaks. This safe place will be an invaluable refuge for those with ASD and other conditions.”
3. Be careful when changing company routine. “If you know that one of your employees has ASD, be aware that changes in their daily life can be very upsetting to them. Something as simple as moving their desk an inch to the right, or asking them to change their lunch break can be overwhelming. To that end, give your employee plenty of warning time before making any big changes. This will help to ensure workflow continues without disruption or undue upset.”
4. Troubleshoot solutions with your employee. “Every individual with ASD has differing needs and concerns. Talk to your employee about how you can make their work life more comfortable and productive. Perhaps they would work better if they could wear ear plugs, or if the bright overhead light was turned down.”
5. Educate your employees. “It is important that people understand that jokes or rude comments will not be tolerated, and that such behavior will be viewed as discrimination. Instead, encourage inclusivity—while honoring your employee’s privacy, of course, as they may not want their diagnosis made public.”

For more on this topic, please contact Rob Wilson at rwilson@thewilsoncompanies.com.