What Small Businesses Are Up Against

Small businesses still employ a large part of the workforce. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, they give jobs to 62.3 million people, almost 50% of private sector workers. But it’s getting harder to hire and keep good people.

Business owners feel it every day. Job openings stay unfilled longer, and experienced workers have more choices now. Bigger companies are also trying to hire the same people.

On top of that, workers are looking more closely at what a job offers besides pay. Stability and basic benefits are becoming more important in their choices.

The Hiring Challenge for Small Businesses

Right now, finding reliable workers is one of the biggest challenges.

Recent trends continue to show a few challenges:

●       Hiring and keeping good employees is harder than ever.

75% of employers globally are reporting they are having challenges in filling roles, according to a ManpowerGroup report

●       Workers care more about job security and benefits.

These two are part of the most important factors employees consider when choosing a new job, according to a study done by Gallup

●       Larger companies are competing more for the same talent.

What Can Help You Stay Competitive

Today, people consider everything before deciding where to work.

They notice how a business operates each day. They watch how employees are treated. They also think about whether they can support themselves and their families while working there.

This is where having simple, reliable health coverage can really help.
 

HealthChoice of Michigan offers a plan designed for small businesses in Wayne and Oakland Counties. It’s simple: a monthly flat rate of $270 per person, regardless of age or gender. Our Small Business Plan covers health, dental, and vision, and gives access to trusted providers throughout Metro Detroit.

It’s a way to give your team something valuable without putting extra strain on your budget. Learn more at our website and find a health plan that's right for your team.

Other Ways to Grow in 2026

A detailed and recent LinkedIn report highlights a few smart ways small businesses can keep growing this year:

●       Use AI for daily tasks: AI helps save time on emails, content creation, marketing, and lead follow-up. It reduces your team's workload so they can focus on tasks that require a more personal touch.
 

●       Keep your brand honest and clear: People trust businesses that feel genuine. A brand that stays consistent, is simple to understand, and matches how you actually work builds stronger customer loyalty.
 

●       Invest in relationships: Good relationships bring repeat customers, referrals, and new opportunities to grow. For small businesses, trust goes a long way.

Success Starts With the People Behind It

Small businesses have different ways to grow in 2026, from using new tools to save time, to strengthening relationships that open doors, and building a trusted name that keeps customers coming back. All of these strategies matter.

But the people running your business each day matter just as much. The way they are treated, the support they have, and the sense of stability they feel all affect how they work and whether they stay.

This year’s growth may come from many places, but the people working behind the counter, in the kitchen, on the front line, and helping customers every day are what keep a business going.