Minneapolis, MN – Despite the lingering effects of the pandemic, the demand for services and jobs remains high in Minneapolis. The leisure and hospitality industry may have only added 11,000 jobs in January, but the critical service sector experienced its 36th consecutive month of job gains. Americans’ strong desires to spend money on experiences have greatly benefited businesses in the services industry post-pandemic.
One new bar and restaurant in Minneapolis, A Bar of Their Own, is a prime example of the effects of this high demand. Scheduled to open in about a month, the establishment will exclusively show women’s sporting events. The concept, inspired by The Sports Bra in Portland, Oregon, has received overwhelming support from the Twin Cities community. Owner Jillian Hiscock introduced the idea last spring and successfully ran a crowdfunding campaign to bring it to fruition.
Hiscock also faced a surge in hiring efforts, receiving 150 applications for 25 to 30 open positions within just two days. She attributes this not only to the desire for employment, post-pandemic, but to a fundamental shift in people’s relationships with work. Many individuals are seeking a better balance between their professional and personal lives, prioritizing opportunities that allow them to be part of something bigger.
“Since things have opened back up [following the pandemic], we’ve had a lot of folks whose relationships with work has fundamentally changed,” Hiscock stated. “Showing up and just doing a thing for somebody that you feel doesn’t care about as a human is less interesting to people now, because we all know how quick that can be taken away.”
The high demand for services and jobs has led to a shift in the workforce, with many individuals seeking opportunities that align with their personal values and offer a sense of purpose. Businesses like A Bar of Their Own are prime examples of the changing landscape, attracting both customers and employees who are seeking more than just a job, but a meaningful and fulfilling experience.
As the demand for services and jobs continues at a fever pitch, it’s clear that the post-pandemic landscape is reshaping not only the economy but also the way people view their professional lives. The critical service sector, in particular, is poised to play a significant role in the ongoing recovery and transformation.