NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The number of new requests for unemployment benefits is at an all time high at the national level.
Tennesseans are working hard to rebound, and the Department of Labor and Workforce Development reports our stats are moving in a positive direction. In September, the unemployment rate dropped to 6.3-percent from 8.6-percent. We're inching closer and closer to pre-pandemic levels.
One year ago the unemployment rate for September 2019 was 3.3-percent. Tennessee's all-time highest unemployment rate was record in April of this year during the peak of COVID-19 business closures, it was 15.5-percent.
Unfortunately, the number of Americans across the board who are out of work for more than 27-weeks is growing.
It is usually harder to get a job the longer you are out of the workforce, but that may not be the case these days.
"When it comes to explaining a career gap on your resume really talk to the recruiter and showcase what you've done in that time to make sure that you're more marketable," said Blair Decembrele Heitmann, LinkedIn Career Expert. "Whether it be taking a course or networking with your contacts you want to really show you used the time wisely."
While you stay busy doing that, Tennessee's Department of Labor and Workforce Development reports employers are actively creating jobs where they can. More than 11,100 new positions were created between August and September.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
