Local Businesses Adapt to Hiring Challenges

OnFocus – One year after Wisconsin first experienced unprecedented pandemic challenges, local restaurants and businesses are finally starting to see some normalcy return. One of the biggest challenges reported during this past year is hiring, with business owners making adjustments to encourage applications.

“At Weiler’s, we increased our starting wages to $12, with an extra dollar on weekend shifts,” said Kelly Weiler, owner. “We also offer benefits and flexible scheduling, which so many people are in need of right now.”

Being a locally-owned business, the Weiler family strives to support their employees and the community as a whole – especially so during these difficult times.

“It’s so important to value your team members and empathize with what they are going through during these pandemic challenges,” said Weiler. “We are a local business and we value this community – it’s where we live, work, and play – so it’s our role to help care for it.”

Local restaurant El Mezcal has also had some hiring challenges during the pandemic, but has found that providing a safe work environment helps applicants feel more comfortable.

“We’ve been following CDC guidelines from day one in an effort to keep our employees and patrons safe,” said Andres Aguirre, manager at the Marshfield location. “It’s been a challenging year, but thanks to our awesome staff and the supportive community, we’ve pulled through.”

Workers at El Mezcal have been kept busy with carryout orders and extra cleaning duties, and are grateful for the community’s support during this time.

“Our community is great,” said Aguirre. “They’ve been patient with us as we adapt to COVID and other challenges. We are continually seeking more help as we grow our team, so if anyone is in need of employment we encourage them to apply. Free food is one of the perks of working here!”

As local businesses reflect on a chaotic year and look forward to a post-pandemic era, community members that support local will continue to be more important than ever. Stay tuned to OnFocus for more local business spotlights! If you’d like your business to be featured, please reach out to our team!

We welcome your stories! Contact us at [email protected]!