MBACC Targets Retirees To Help Local Businesses Staff Up For Summer

David Hucks

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) often focuses its recruitment efforts on high school seniors, as well as young to middle-aged adults seeking job opportunities related to local hotels and businesses. However, with the summer season approaching, the organization is recognizing the untapped potential of retirees as a valuable workforce demographic, aiming to create a diverse hiring pool that not only fills vacancies but also enhances the community.

Currently, the Myrtle Beach area is witnessing a significant staffing crisis, with help-wanted signs plastered across numerous establishments. The hospitality sector, including restaurants, hotels, and bars, is showing a considerable deficit in workforce numbers as they gear up for the peak season. This shortage not only affects the service quality provided to visitors but also impacts local businesses’ ability to operate efficiently during this crucial time for tourism.

In light of this challenge, MBACC is taking proactive steps by targeting retirees and veterans to help fill the gap in staffing during the busy summer months. This strategy not only addresses immediate workforce shortages but also encourages the involvement of experienced individuals who can bring valuable skills and perspectives to the job market.

We have successfully helped some individuals find employment, and now we are facing another wave of job openings that have emerged,” stated Karen Riordan, CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. Her comments highlight the dynamic nature of the employment landscape and the ongoing efforts to ensure local businesses can thrive by maintaining adequate staffing levels.

Riordan said they’re trying a new effort this year to help out local businesses by calling on retirees and veterans looking to rejoin the workforce.

The idea to focus on retirees was suggested by an MBACC member, who observed the growing trend of individuals aged 55 and older relocating to the Grand Strand area. This demographic shift indicates a significant potential workforce that is often overlooked but could greatly contribute to local businesses during peak seasons.

Many retirees have a passion for the beach, enjoy golfing, and participate in various activities, but they may also be seeking opportunities to make new friends and supplement their income,” Riordan shared. This perspective sheds light on the motivations behind retirees seeking work, presenting a win-win situation for both the employers and the retirees themselves.

Last month, MBACC launched an extensive marketing campaign targeting job openings specifically for seniors and veterans on social media platforms like Facebook. This innovative approach aims to reach a wider audience and highlight the available employment opportunities tailored to this demographic, ensuring that they feel valued and recognized in the job market.

Moreover, integrating retirees into the workforce can foster intergenerational relationships and mentorship opportunities. Younger employees can learn from the wealth of experience that retirees bring, while retirees can gain new skills and perspectives from their younger counterparts. This collaborative environment can lead to a more dynamic workplace and ultimately enhance service quality for the customers, making it a beneficial arrangement for everyone involved.

As the summer approaches, MBACC’s initiative to engage retirees and veterans proves to be timely and crucial for the local business landscape. By acknowledging and valuing the contributions of this demographic, MBACC sets a positive example for other communities facing similar staffing challenges. Their commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce reflects a progressive approach to employment that can inspire other regions to adopt similar strategies.

Furthermore, the potential economic impact of employing retirees can be significant. By filling vacant positions, local businesses can increase their revenue, enhance customer satisfaction, and create a more vibrant community atmosphere. This approach not only benefits the businesses but also contributes to the overall local economy, ensuring that Myrtle Beach continues to thrive as a premier tourist destination.

In terms of specific roles, many retirees have expressed interest in positions that offer flexible hours, enabling them to balance work with leisure activities. Jobs in customer service, hospitality, and retail are particularly appealing as they provide opportunities for social interaction while contributing to local businesses. Additionally, volunteering options are also available, allowing retirees to give back to their community, which can be equally fulfilling.

In addition to online marketing, MBACC has also placed advertisements in local newspapers to promote seasonal, part-time, and full-time positions. By utilizing multiple channels for outreach, the organization aims to attract a diverse group of potential applicants, ensuring that local businesses are not only staffed adequately but also benefit from a wide range of experiences and skills.

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