How Small Business Owners Can Find Workers in Northeastern Connecticut (Without Losing Their Minds)

Northeastern Connecticut: where the rolling hills are gorgeous, and the worker pool... well, sometimes it feels like trying to fish with a spaghetti strainer. But fear not, small business owners! There's still hope to find the dream team you need to help your business thrive.

1. Leverage Local Networks

You’ve heard the phrase, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” Around here, that might just mean asking your cousin’s neighbor’s best friend if they know anyone who’s looking for work. Utilize the Windham Regional Chamber of Commerce for help.

2. Get Social (Media)

The days of posting a “Help Wanted” sign in the window may not be gone, but they’re definitely hanging on by a thread. In today’s world, job seekers (and employers) are hanging out on Facebook, LinkedIn, and even Instagram. So, polish up your online presence and post job openings where your potential employees are scrolling.

3. Tap Into Local Schools

Need fresh energy? Look no further than local high schools, community colleges, and trade schools.  Christopher Ambrosio from ECSU is ready to set you up with both current students and recent grads.  Sure, they might be new to the workforce, but enthusiasm goes a long way. Plus, they know all the latest TikTok dances — perfect for the company holiday party.

4. Offer Flexibility (But Not Too Much)

Today’s workers want flexibility, but you don’t want to find your employee finishing a report while sitting at the beach. Offering remote work options, flexible hours, or a hybrid model can set you apart from other businesses. Just be sure to set some boundaries, so you don’t end up Zooming with someone poolside.

5. Showcase Your Small-Business Charm

You may not be offering Silicon Valley salaries, but you do have something those big corporations don’t: personality! Highlight your company's unique culture, close-knit team, and the fact that nobody will get lost in a sea of cubicles.

In today’s hiring landscape, finding the right worker might feel like trying to catch a unicorn. But with a little creativity and a sense of humor, you’ll have your team assembled in no time — or at least before you end up putting your cousin to work. Again.

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed with hiring, I’m here to help! At Optimal HR Solutions, I specialize in guiding small businesses through the hiring process (and everything else HR-related) with a personal touch and a bit of humor. Let me take the stress off your plate, so you can focus on growing your business — without resorting to recruiting your cousin again.

Let's get your dream team together!

Jennifer Barry, Owner

Optimal HR Solutions

jenniferbarry176@gmail.com

www.optimalhrsolutions.org.