Hiring & Workforce
The Workforce Challenge
Section titled “The Workforce Challenge”Downtown businesses face unique hiring challenges:
- Competition from larger employers
- Service industry turnover
- Limited parking for employees
- Need for evening/weekend availability
Where to Find Workers
Section titled “Where to Find Workers”Local Resources
Section titled “Local Resources”| Resource | Best For | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| NC Works Career Center | All positions | Cumberland County |
| FTCC | Students, part-time | Career services |
| Fort Bragg transition | Veterans, spouses | TAP office |
| Fayetteville State | Students, graduates | Career center |
Online Platforms
Section titled “Online Platforms”- Indeed, LinkedIn - general hiring
- Poached Jobs - hospitality/restaurant specific
- Local Facebook groups - community reach
Military-Connected Workforce
Section titled “Military-Connected Workforce”Fort Bragg (formerly Fort Liberty) provides a steady stream of:
Military Spouses
Section titled “Military Spouses”- Often highly educated
- Seeking flexible work
- Strong work ethic
- May relocate every 2-3 years
Transitioning Service Members
Section titled “Transitioning Service Members”- Leadership experience
- Reliability, punctuality
- May use VA education benefits for training
Veterans
Section titled “Veterans”- Discipline and accountability
- Problem-solving skills
- May qualify for tax credits
Training Programs
Section titled “Training Programs”On-the-Job Training (OJT)
Section titled “On-the-Job Training (OJT)”NC Works may reimburse up to 50% of wages during training period for eligible new hires.
How it works:
- Apply through NC Works before hiring
- Create training plan
- Hire and train employee
- Receive wage reimbursement
Apprenticeships
Section titled “Apprenticeships”ApprenticeshipNC offers support for creating apprenticeship programs.
- Customized training to your needs
- Tax credits available
- Build loyal, skilled workforce
Employee Retention
Section titled “Employee Retention”Parking Solutions
Section titled “Parking Solutions”Downtown parking can be a dealbreaker for employees.
| Option | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitality Permit | $25/month | For service industry workers |
| Monthly lease | $50/month | Guaranteed space |
| Transit subsidy | Varies | FAST bus passes |
Contact: Park Fayetteville, 910-222-0302
Benefits to Consider
Section titled “Benefits to Consider”Even small businesses can offer:
- Flexible scheduling
- Meal discounts/perks
- Professional development
- Event tickets (during downtown events)
- Tips pooling/sharing
Retention Strategies
Section titled “Retention Strategies”- Clear advancement path - Even in small teams
- Regular feedback - Not just annual reviews
- Competitive pay - Know market rates
- Schedule stability - Posted 2+ weeks ahead
- Culture building - Team outings, recognition
Legal Requirements
Section titled “Legal Requirements”NC Employment Law Basics
Section titled “NC Employment Law Basics”| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum wage | Federal/state minimum applies |
| Youth employment | Restrictions for under 18 |
| Workers comp | Required for 3+ employees |
| Unemployment insurance | Required contributions |
Independent Contractors
Section titled “Independent Contractors”Be careful with classification. Misclassifying employees as contractors can result in significant penalties.
Generally an employee if you control:
- When they work
- How they do the work
- What tools they use
Consult an employment attorney or accountant if unsure.
Resources
Section titled “Resources”| Resource | Service | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| NC Works | Job posting, training grants | Cumberland County office |
| FTCC Small Business Center | HR guidance | 910-678-8400 |
| NC SBTDC | Employment law basics | sbtdc.org |