Florida’s red-hot job market is starting to hit employers where it hurts the most---in the wallet. Florida has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. And it’s even better here in Southwest Florida where the jobless rate is a microscopic 2-point-3 percent. With figures that low, it’s a job-seekers dream because there are plenty of available positions and workers can demand big perks and hefty salaries. Warren May is with the state agency that tracks unemployment. He says workers have been sitting on the sidelines but now they’re looking at new positions. And May says the state’s businesses will have to become experts in retention.

“They’re going to have to really look at their whole benefit package and offer a wide array of benefits that are really competitive because there’s going to be an awful lot of competition for that good worker you’ve got out there.”

May says every job sector in Florida has added jobs this year, giving prospective workers even more choices.

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Florida’s tight labor market is helping the state’s workers get more money and enhanced benefits. It’s also been a headache for employers who are beginning to see their experienced employees leave for better offers. That’s true in Southwest Florida where the unemployment rate is a paltry 2-point-3 percent. Warren May is with the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation. He says just about anyone who wants a job can find one.

“People who have been sort of sitting on a job waiting for things to get better realize that things are better and now they’re starting to move to other jobs. It creates a very tight labor market for employers out there.”

May says employers need to look at their benefits package and offer a wide array of choices to help keep workers from leaving. He says there’s plenty of competition for good workers in Florida.