Inflation, Jobs, and Confidence Create Mixed Economic Message, AI Training Expands

Employers are holding on to their workforce and working them longer hours, according to the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch data from September, all while inflation continues to outpace wages. Host Gene Marks poses a few questions for employers on what to do amid an economy that keeps sending mixed messages: increased growth, persistent inflation, and businesses expressing lower confidence than a year ago while 62% express optimism about revenue growth in 2027. In AI news, a partnership with OpenAI and the Small Business Development Council extends training on practical uses for AI while expanding resources and networking, including playbooks and access. Listen to the podcast. Topics: 00:00 – Introduction 00:31 – Paychex Year-End Payroll Checklist Promo 01:09 – Small Business Employment Snapshot (Paychex Report) 02:31 – Commentary: Wages vs. Inflation & Affordability 03:41 – Consumer Spending Implications 04:08 – Wall Street Journal / Commerce Dept. Data: Growth & Inflation 06:34 – Hiring Plans & Employee Benefits Snapshot 08:00 – AI News: SBDC–OpenAI Partnership Overview 10:05 – Episode Wrap-up  Additional Resources Paychex Small Business Employment Watch: https://bit.ly/paychex-sbew Prepare for year-end: https://bit.ly/ye-checklist DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.