The U.S. economy might need to leap over a few hurdles in 2022 as many factors could derail the post-pandemic recovery, financial experts warn. One of these threats could be the country’s intensifying labor shortage. As companies hang “now hiring” signs on their doors nationwide, employers say they cannot fill these positions. It may not be for a lack of trying either. Businesses, especially in the services sector, are employing a broad array of measures, such as paying applicants to come to interviews, giving the new employees a sign-on bonus, and offering generous benefits and perks. The U.S. economy remains short between four and six million jobs from before the pandemic, despite a near-record 11 million job openings. Still, labor participation is lethargic as many workers are still not taking advantage of these employment opportunities. In November, the labor force participation rate (LFPR) stood at a 43-year low of 61.6 …