What's on the minds of Southeast Minnesota employers as we head into 2026? A /deed/data/data-tools/employer-experience/index.jspSeptember 2025 survey of workforce and economic development professionals who work directly with regional businesses sheds light on what employers are experiencing. These professionals have their fingers on the pulse of the region's economy and labor market through regular conversations with employers across industries. The survey results offer a snapshot of what Southeast Minnesota employers are experiencing right now.

When asked about employers' outlook for the next six months, Southeast Minnesota professionals showed notable uncertainty. Over half (53%) were unsure or didn't know, compared to just 33% statewide. Among those who did express a perspective, the sentiment leaned negative: 47% described employer outlook as somewhat pessimistic versus 44% statewide. Notably, no Southeast Minnesota respondents reported very pessimistic or optimistic outlooks, while the state saw small percentages in both categories (1% very pessimistic, 2% very optimistic, and 20% somewhat optimistic). Southeast Minnesota stands out for both higher uncertainty and a complete absence of optimistic outlooks compared to the state overall.

Figure 1. Overall, how would you describe employers' outlook for the next six months?

Respondents also weighed in on whether hiring has gotten easier or harder over the past year. Half of regional professionals reported that employers are finding it harder to fill positions, with 17% saying much harder and 33% saying somewhat harder. This is notably higher than the statewide response, where 37% reported increased difficulty (6% much harder, 31% somewhat harder). While 42% of Southeast Minnesota respondents said hiring ease remained about the same, only 8% reported any improvement (somewhat easier), and none said it was much easier. In contrast, 28% of state respondents saw some easing in hiring challenges. The pattern shows Southeast Minnesota respondents reporting more difficulty and less improvement compared to statewide results.

Figure 2. On average, compared to a year ago, how would you rate employers' ease of hiring for the positions they are trying to fill?

As this survey continues biannually, it will provide valuable tracking of how employer sentiment and hiring conditions evolve in Southeast Minnesota. The September 2025 results establish a baseline showing regional employers navigating uncertainty and persistent hiring challenges as they plan for 2026.

For more information about the Employer Experience Survey in Southeast Minnesota, contact Amanda Blaschko at Amanda.Blaschko@state.mn.us.