Labor Hoarding
Explaining the Decline in Labor Productivity
The recent decline in labor productivity has left me and many others puzzled, especially considering the robust job growth and low unemployment rates we've witnessed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the first quarter of 2023 saw a 0.5% decrease in output in the U.S., while hours worked increased by 2.6%. This resulted in a significant 2.1% drop in labor productivity. In this post, we will explore the concept of labor hoarding as a possible explanation for this productivity decline and discuss its implications.
Why Should We Care?
Labor productivity, as an essential economic indicator, directly impacts economic growth and living standards. A decline in labor productivity signifies that we are generating less output relative to the inputs employed. This leads to reduced revenue and ultimately lower profits for businesses. Consequently, if labor productivity continues to fall, we can expect a negative impact on economic growth and living standards.
Labor Hoarding and Productivity Decline:
Labor hoarding, a phenomenon where firms retain more employees than necessary given the prevailing market conditions, offers a plausible explanation for the decline in productivity. During the years 2020-2022, the tight labor market made it challenging for businesses to find suitable employees, hindering their ability to meet growing demands. Consequently, firms resorted to retaining existing employees instead of going through the costly and arduous process of recruiting from the labor market.
The Cost of Talent Acquisition:
Recruiting or talent acquisition, as it is known in industry circles, has become increasingly costly and burdensome for employers. The difficulties in finding qualified candidates led to firms retaining more workers than they actually needed to keep up with demand. This labor hoarding strategy, driven by the desire to avoid the pains associated with recruiting in a tight labor market, has contributed to the decline in labor productivity.
The Role of Low Unemployment Rates:
The seemingly low unemployment rates experienced currently may, to a certain extent, be a result of labor hoarding. As firms held on to employees, the unemployment rate remained suppressed, giving the impression of a resilient labor market. However, as labor markets adjust to changing interest rates and overall economic conditions, labor hoarding is likely to subside. Consequently, we can expect the unemployment rate to reflect more accurate labor market dynamics.
The Takeaway
Understanding the concept of labor hoarding provides valuable insight into the recent productivity decline. As labor markets adjust and firms realign their workforce to match demand, we may see a rebalancing of labor productivity levels. It is essential to monitor this development, as labor productivity serves as a crucial indicator for economic growth and living standards.
The unexpected decline in labor productivity amidst a strong job market and low unemployment rates has prompted the exploration of potential explanations. Labor hoarding emerges as a plausible factor contributing to this phenomenon. By better understanding labor hoarding's implications, we can gain valuable insights into the dynamics of the labor market and its impact on overall productivity. Stay tuned to our newsletter and YouTube channel for further analysis and updates on economic trends, ensuring you stay ahead in an ever-changing economic landscape.
This post was inspired by a comment left on my last post and by an article that Brian Lynch shared. Hat tip to Brian and all of you that share articles with me. It helps me learn more about your interests.