According to the October and November jobs reports, overall job gains have slowed compared to the massive job growth in September. Yet, the employers’ open positions remained steady in September, which some people have dubbed the “great mismatch”—indicating an economy where open positions and job seekers are plentiful—yet the right talent is unavailable.

In some instances, this is true. But in others, large quantities of unfilled jobs are a sign that employers are testing a bizarre yet calculated strategy: keeping jobs open deliberately.

AN UNUSUAL STRATEGY FOR AN UNUSUAL LABOR ECONOMY

Ever apply for a job and learn they’re exploring other options, only to watch that exact position remain open and unfilled for months?

Many U.S. employers are not in a rush to promote and advertise jobs and then fill them rapidly, which could indicate a purposeful strategy. In an uncertain economy, a company sees direct bottom line benefits if a job stays vacant. This organization will then track ahead of budget plans by leaving positions open and slow-rolling the hiring. This creative move allows organizations to feign active hiring and growth while enjoying cost savings on the back end. This move may help the C-suite hit quarterly goals without the negative perception of removing jobs from their career sites.

KEEPING JOBS OPEN IN A TIGHT LABOR MARKET

As noted, perhaps the most enticing motivations driving an employer to keep a job open are financial advantages. Not filling a position reduces salary and benefits, office, and equipment expenditures. This maximizes short-term profits, thus boosting short-term financial gains, shareholder value, and investor confidence. In the new year, a company may also be looking to boost shareholder confidence and come off financially strong right off the bat. They could also be taking a wait-and-see approach to hiring as it assesses market conditions, business trends, and other external factors to come.

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