Let me be clear, I hope this doesn't turn into a mud slinging contest. I'm just sharing notes.
It's not particularly generational but those in their younger years do seem to be more of an issue in the employment pool.
One of my own sons included. He has no particular desire to work, just makes enough to pay his rent and hang out with friends. Talks about getting a sweet ride but doesn't have the will to save the money or work for it. Magical thinking.
Other son is in the Army and hard charger, bucking for Sargent in under 4 years. Already a Cav-Scout and going for Ranger.
I work in a healthcare facility and we cannot find good help. No show, no call all the time. The people that do apply are largely bottom of the barrel who don't last long and have poor work ethic and poor communication skills. Get one decent person out of 8 hires. The pool people are no better.
My wife works in a mid size big box store that just opened, of the original 20 people hired 4 months ago she is the only individual left. Same thing. She showed up to open the store a few days ago and the 3 other people who were suppose to be there? No show, no call. The job isn't particularly demanding either.
I quiz guys in other fields; HVAC techs, hardware stores, elevator techs, fire service techs, food services.
All singing the same song, can't find reliable help.
People that have been in their particular fields for any period of time (reliable) are being snapped up. Just lost a co-worker who was offered a 30% bump in pay and 3 weeks vacation to jump ship. She did. I posted my resume on Indeed, my mailbox exploded with offers. Some clear across the country even though I have it marked no more than 50 miles away.
Perhaps it is regional; productive people are clearing out of CT because of the state taxes for greener pastures.
What say you?