Matching worker, job remains challenge

Matching worker, job remains challenge: "Jeremy Warren, The StarPhoenix
Published: Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Saskatchewan has 11,000 jobs waiting to be filled, according to recruitment ads the provincial government recently placed in Alberta newspapers.
For every job, there are virtually as many stories from employers and potential employees about their experience wading through Saskatchewan's shrinking labour pool. The StarPhoenix spoke with Saskatoon's employers and job-hunters to gauge the impact the labour shortage is having.
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'Anybody who wants a job can get one,' said Ricky Roinila, who's looking for a job in shipping and receiving.
Standing outside the Canada- Saskatchewan Career and Employment Services offi ce in downtown Saskatoon, Roinila, who just got back from a 10- year stay in Rankin Inlet, hasn't had trouble fi nding jobs. It's a matter of being realistic about the search.
'There are so many people applying for jobs that it's better to apply for something you've been trained for or have a lot experience in. You still have to be smart about it,' Roinila said.
Employers beware, the labour crunch can make it easier for a person to leave a job they don't feel comfortable with, Roinila said.
'You don't have to put up with crap since there are tons of jobs out there. If you feel your boss is endangering you or treating you unfairly, just leave. You don't have to fi ght tooth and nail for a job these days.'
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While many construction companies and contractors are getting squeezed in the labour crunch, consumers are feeling the impact, too.
The time it takes to build a home is increasing, which delays possession dates and increases construction costs, said Perry Kenke, owner of River Ridge Homes.
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