It is amazing to me that this is happening again, but it is.  Starting January 1, 2012 the minimum wage will jump almost 4.3% from $8.67 to $9.04!  This will have a direct impact on some of our clients and an indirect impact on all of our clients.  Those employers that are currently paying anywhere from $9.00 – $9.50 per hour to differentiate themselves from the $8.67 worker will have lost their advantage starting January 1.  And while it is still a “buyers” market that favors employers, we see that margin getting thiner and thiner.  It may not have to be done Janaury 1, but we recommend that employers in the $9.00 to $9.50 per hour for entry level also boost their ranges 4.3% to stay out in front.  It may not be a big difference, but psychologically to be earning “minimum wage” can be a barrier for good, hard workers.