The sentence “Companies are having a hard time filling positions” may seem odd given the current economic recession, but this sentence is true. The number of open job positions has increased 37% from last year but there are still 15 million unemployed adults, 40%, which have been out of, work for 6 months or longer.

Companies were forced for combine job tasks when doing layoffs last year. Now, someone who hopes to get those jobs must meet the new requirements. For example, accountants must also do financial analysis, factory workers need to program computers to run machinery and information technology workers are being forced to do both the business and technology side of the job.

Unemployed workers are being forced to take courses to learn their new skills and obtain certification. Employers rather wait and hold job vacant then settle for less.

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As the economy has began to rise out of it’s rut, companies have been hiring temporary workers to get them through without initially handing over the large cost of hiring full time workers. In the past, this has been a symbol that permanent hires are in the near future and that the economy is on its way back up, however this might not be the case this time.

According to msnbc.com economists and business people say that employers are lacking confidence that the economy will continue to get better. The current economy is believed to be fragile and unpredictable.
In the 90’s, temporary hiring launched the quick return of job creation and permanent hiring, as well as in 2003 this was shown once again. For people who are not employed, temporary jobs help feed families and give people pay checks who have been unfortunate and lost jobs.
In a time where to have any job is good news, hopefully the temp jobs will keep coming and eventually turn into long term permanent employment.

With today’s struggling economy, many consumers are facing the reality of being forced to look for new employment.  The unfortunate thing is that many consumers were in the same job for many years, and possibly feeling a little overwhelmed with how technologically advanced jobs are requiring people to now be. In an effort to help consumers learn all aspects of the Microsoft Office products, and other technical skills to be successful in today’s workforce, Microsoft has launched their Elevate America website.

This website is a great idea and something that I truly believe can be a great tool for anyone looking for a new job, or someone currently working and wanting to learn more.  There are various certification courses, Microsoft Office tutorials, E-learning courses and information about classes available in their area.

According to the website, these are the things they are looking to accomplish:

*  Expanded access to basic technological literacy and skills training.

*  Intermediate technology skills training courses, instructor-led and online, plus selected certification exams.

* Access to a new web portal that will help guide individuals to training that positions them for success in the economy today, and tomorrow.

Leadpile Lead Exchange believes that knowing all this information is very important in any career.  Having a company like Microsoft offer these services is a sign that everyone is trying to contribute their part in helping our nation get back on their feet. Knowledge is power!