Many locally owned businesses tell me they are having a hard time filling open positions. That seems quite strange, given that one out of 12 in our area are still unemployed.

The managers of these businesses say that they might interview 20 or 30 people, but can’t find many prospective employees they believe will show up to work on time, be cheerful and follow directions. A large percentage of applicants who are offered a job frequently say the offered wages are not enough money to encourage them to work instead of stay home.