# Small Businesses Face Challenges in Hiring Qualified Staff NFIB report shows job openings are rising but talent gap persists. - **Source:** [Small Business Trends](https://brifing.si/source/127319f9-9cc5-40fc-8c5a-f524915e7611) - **Published:** 2026-07-14 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6beb9fbd-78fb-42e3-8078-1a4de3e1ce55 ## Decline in Hiring Trends The NFIB Employment Index recorded 100.2 in June, marking the fourth consecutive monthly decline. While 32% of small businesses report unfilled positions, skilled roles face particular challenges. This trend could impact business growth strategies. ## Shortage of Qualified Candidates 51% of small business owners received few or no qualified applicants for open positions. Skilled roles (27%) and unskilled labor (12%) remain difficult to fill, highlighting varying challenges across industries. ## Wage Increases and Cost Pressures 28% of owners raised wages in June, but only 17% plan increases in coming months. Labor costs are the top concern for 8% of owners, reflecting the delicate balance between incentives and cost management. ## Potential Solutions Businesses can overcome hiring hurdles by diversifying recruitment and offering training programs. Incentives like flexible work arrangements or professional development opportunities may attract talent. A net 11% plan to create new jobs in the next three months. ## Strategic Workforce Planning NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg emphasizes adapting to labor market dynamics. Collaborating with local educational institutions or investing in recruitment tech could provide long-term solutions. ## Future Outlook Increased focus on labor quality signals the need for strategic planning. While job openings show recovery since May, closing the talent gap requires sustained effort from small businesses. ## Sources covering this story - https://smallbiztrends.com/small-businesses-struggle-with-job-openings-amid-labor-shortage/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._