Hand reaching up ladder Career pathing is the concept of creating a tangible journey for an employee to move "up the ladder" of a company. (Photo: Shutterstock)

The most severe worker shortages on record largely were expected to ease in September with the reopening of schools and expiration of enhanced unemployment benefits. But as organizations continue to navigate labor shortages, many are finding themselves continuing to struggle with attracting candidates. Those returning to the workforce following the COVID-19 pandemic are at the wheel—and are expecting more from their employers. Beyond increasing pay, financial bonuses and improved health care or tuition incentives, companies should offer career pathing as part of their recruitment and employee engagement strategies.

Career pathing, the concept of creating a tangible journey for an employee to move "up the ladder" of a company, can help attract and retain employees by enabling them to see themselves as a true member of an organization that represents the future of the company. For many, the focus is less about bargaining for a higher salary in a tight labor market and more about finding a position with a brighter future. This emphasis could reshape many organizations to see their workforce as a true asset to the company's growth.

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