Skip to content

NFIB Report Shows Small Businesses Still Struggling to Find Workers

NFIB Report Shows Small Businesses Still Struggling to Find Workers

June 3, 2021 Last Edit: June 5, 2025

NFIB Report Shows Small Businesses Still Struggling to Find Workers

A record-high 48% of small business owners nationwide in May reported unfilled job openings (seasonally adjusted), according to NFIB’s monthly jobs report.

State-specific data is unavailable, but a May survey of NFIB members in Tennessee said an overwhelming majority of those were struggling to get people to even apply.

“These survey results clearly show how difficult it is right now to find employees,” NFIB State Director Jim Brown said. “We are hopeful the hiring environment in Tennessee will improve soon because the state is ending the federal pandemic-related unemployment compensation early, but, until that happens, hiring will remain a challenge.”

The temporary federal benefit is set to expire in September, but Gov. Bill Lee said it will end in Tennessee effective July 3. 

Click here to read the full national jobs report.

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Receive our newsletter and email notification
Knowledge is power. Let us help you stay informed with breaking legislative news, regulatory updates, business tips, and more.

Related Articles

July 10, 2025
USDA Launches $16 Billion Disaster Relief Program for Farmers I…
Stage One signups begin July 10 for for 2023–2024 crop losses.
Read More
July 10, 2025
NFIB Nebraska Reacts to New Optimism Report
NFIB Nebraska State Director Ryan McIntosh reacts to Small Business Optimis…
Read More
July 10, 2025
NFIB Minnesota Reacts to New Optimism Report
NFIB Minnesota State Director Jon Boesche reacts to Small Business Optimism…
Read More
July 10, 2025
NFIB North Dakota Reacts to New Optimism Report
NFIB North Dakota State Director Don Larson reacts to Small Business Optimi…
Read More

© 2001 - 2025 National Federation of Independent Business. All Rights Reserved. Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Accessibility