In the midst of a nationwide labor shortage, small businesses have a unique tool at their disposal that, if used effectively, could make them more attractive than larger companies to prospective employees.

As small businesses typically have less staff, many of whom work closely with management, they’re better poised to ensure their people feel valued and happy at work. That’s according to a new study from Homebase about the future of local work released Thursday, which surveyed 3,300 hourly and gig workers in June.