On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into effect the CARES Act- providing additional unemployment benefits to Americans that have been affected by COVID-19. The act includes workers that are not ordinarily eligible for unemployment benefits, to apply for additional funding should employment status be altered by layoff, furlough or lack of work.
During COVID-19, the unemployment rate in America rose to 13.3%, which is the closest it has been to the rate of the Great Depression ever. In 13-weeks’ time, a record breaking 45.7 million Americans filed for first-time unemployment benefits- constituting the need for additional funding and government support. The CARES Act provides up to an additional $600 weekly to those who filed for unemployment, based on employment status and financial needs. The additional income has been a driving factor in many American’s’ choices to delay returning to the workforce. Since its start, the government has issued an expiration date of July 31, 2020 when CARES Act benefits will no longer be available- are you ready for this date?
Are You Ready?
Working with a staffing partner during these times provides employment opportunities to get you back in the job market. Whether you are looking for a short-term fill-in role or a long-term career, staffing agencies provide the necessary tools and resources to not only get your name into the job pool, but to get you hired. Americans should consider returning to work sooner rather than later to get ahead of those who wait until the very end of the CARES Act payout. You are in a position now to choose your opportunities, versus waiting until jobs have already been filled. Look at your options- you may be surprised that the decision of when to go back to work is yours. Weigh your options and see what industries are thriving. If you have any hesitations, questions or concerns, working with a staffing agency can relieve your worries and help you get the position you are looking for.
The Benefits of Short-Term Employment
A short-term assignment now can be beneficial in the long run, as employers look at past work history when considering candidates. Short-term assignments not only fill in gaps on a resume, but also provide experience and additional skills that may not have been there previously. Holding a position can help you meet your personal career and personal development goals.
Even with the national shutdown, the workforce is anticipated to rise exponentially as states continue to reopen. In May 2020, there was an increase of 2.4 million available positions across the United States- equaling an all-time high of 6.5 million available positions. It is essential for those reentering the workforce to begin searching earlier, to ensure they are able to obtain a job without hassle or delay. Working with a staffing partner offers opportunities to candidates that they may not be able to find on their own. A professional representative takes the work out of looking for a job; matching you with openings that meet your schedule and skills.
Get Ahead of the Rush
Don’t be caught off-guard or unprepared when the benefit ends. There is likely to be a rush to apply which will quickly limit available positions. By acting now, or even a few days in advance, you can position yourself at the top of the applicant pool. You’ll appear proactive and have better negotiating power to select a position that meets your schedule and desires.
Use a Staffing Agency to Help
While millions of Americans have been affected by COVID-19 and the results of economic shutdown, there is hope. Working with a staffing agency like Nesco Resource provides quality opportunities every day. In fact, we have over 2,000 positions available right now. Whether you are looking for a short-term assignment or long- term career opportunity, let’s talk. With over sixty years of experience, let us help you enter the workforce. To learn more, apply now visit us online or contact your local branch office.