Here’s news you can use in a constantly changing business environment including where workers went during the pandemic, enhanced benefits to attract workers and a shift in consumer sentiment

1. Where workers went during the pandemic — Employers who’ve had difficulty filling open jobs have answers as to why there are so few workers. Retirement and caring for family members are the two most common reasons people have left their jobs over the last two years. Discover what happened to workers who left the workforce during the pandemic.
2. #ShowUsYourLeave — Major employers are suddenly posting their paid leave benefits on social media. Plus, in order to attract more workers, some are experimenting with enhanced retirement benefits, increased wages, student loan repayment programs and other paid leave. Explore the benefits to sharing your paid leave benefits online.

3. Consumer sentiment sinks — Inflation and worries about the COVID-19 Omicron variant soured American view of the economy in January 2022. U.S. consumer sentiment fell to its lowest levels since November 2011, according to the University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment survey. Check out Michigan consumer data and its recent decline.

4. File early if you need your refund — Small business owners expecting a refund or needing assistance from the IRS are advised to file early. The IRS warns individuals and business owners to expect delays. Read the full story about why small business owners should file their tax return early this year.

5. Build a business that doesn’t feel like work— An interview with bestselling author James Patterson reveals how to build a business from which you never want to retire. Read Patterson’s advice for entrepreneurs.

Thank you to our Friday Five sources: U.S. News & World Report, Money, University of Michigan, The Philadelphia Inquirer and Entrepreneur.

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