96% of Employers Plan to Hire Within the Next Six Months: Wizehire’s 2024 Small Business Report Highlights Positive Hiring Trends

Small businesses across the United States are gearing up for growth and expansion, with a recent survey by Wizehire revealing that 96% of employers plan to hire within the next six months. Despite federal reports predicting sluggish job growth and economic conditions in 2024, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are showing optimism and a strong desire to bring new talent on board.

The survey found that 80% of businesses are looking to hire full-time employees, while 50% are planning to hire part-time workers, and 30% are considering contractors or freelance workers. Additionally, 84% of businesses are likely to give out raises this year, indicating a positive outlook for small business growth in the country.

When it comes to recruitment practices, the survey highlighted that employee referrals were the top method for nearly half of businesses, followed by job boards and business career pages. Despite challenges in finding suitable candidates and facing stiff competition for highly qualified hires, many businesses are focused on building inclusive company cultures and valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

While small businesses are optimistic about their growth prospects, they also face challenges such as limited resources for employee training, increasing competition for talent, and the impact of inflation on spending and market competition. However, the survey showed that most businesses are taking proactive steps to address these challenges and are committed to building diverse and inclusive workplaces.

Overall, the findings from Wizehire’s survey paint a picture of small businesses in the United States that are resilient, adaptable, and focused on growth. With a strong emphasis on hiring, employee retention, and building inclusive company cultures, SMBs are poised to navigate the challenges ahead and continue to drive economic growth in the country.