The big job myth: American workers aren’t ready for American jobs (Atlantic)

Democrats and Republicans have said there is a skills mismatch in today’s labor force that is contributing to an 8.2% unemployment rate three years after the recession officially ended, but it may not be true. A 2011 employer survey found that technical expertise was not the problem but inadequate problem-solving skills. Lack of basic employment skills, such as attendance timeliness and work ethic, was No. 3 on the list. A Manpower survey found 54% of hiring firms said candidates are “looking for more pay than is offered.” Another possibility is that hiring procedures screen out anyone without the exact academic qualifications, or the advertised position has so many roles that it’s impossible to find a person with all of the skills.