14% unemployment, what now?
As news breaks today, Nevada now finds itself with the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 14%, surpassing Michigan at 13.6%. California also posts a 12.4% unemployment rate, third highest in the nation. Nevada also has the highest increase in unemployment since May 2009, a 2.5% increase. It is obvious that Nevada has a tremendous obstacle to climb before any true signs of a recovery take shape in our region. Rather than focus on the size of the problem, it is time to start looking for solutions. How can we get our state working again? Where?
Nevadaworks is active in the business community, speaking with employers about what they need and about what they are not finding in Northern Nevada’s workforce. Nevadaworks.com is also collecting all available jobs in Northern Nevada into one location. To search through these openings or to post your resume to be viewed by local employers click here.
What have we learned? Although we are hurting, there are certain industries that continue to move forward. There were approximately 500 jobs posted in the healthcare industry alone. Information technology, transportation and warehousing, retail, and food services are other active industries. Another important fact to highlight is that many counties have shown a substantial increase in the number of job postings. Churchill, Douglas, Elko, Humboldt, and Lyon counties are showing signs of progress. In total, 2100 jobs were posted in the month of May, with a majority coming from the Reno area, but job seekers should expand their search to these other counties as well.
Employers acknowledge that a very important factor in deciding between applicants is often what these candidates have done while unemployed. Network, volunteer, join a committee, or consider taking an entry-level position as a way to “get your foot in the door”. Although some available positions or locations may not be ideal for you personally, look to the future. Ask yourself, “What am I doing today that will help me get to where I want to be?”
