WORKFORCE CONNECTION

Update from CareerSource Gulf Coast

by: Kim Bodine, Executive Director, CareerSource Gulf Coast

We were excited about turning a corner to reintroduce “normalcy” just as the COVID-19 Delta variant brought about a second round of concerns and challenges. We see these impacts daily as businesses work hard to remain open and operational and individuals strive to make the decisions that are best for themselves and their families.

This time of year, we typically experience an increase in jobseekers actively seeking employment as students return to school and seasonal hiring for the holidays edges forward. Many parents and guardians look for opportunities to return to the workforce after their children go back to school in the fall, and individuals in search of supplemental income look for the flexibility that seasonal/temporary employment offers.

While this second round of the pandemic created a new set of hurdles for both employers and job seekers, we have seen more job seekers actively looking for work than we were earlier this year. Anecdotally, job seekers have indicated they feel more comfortable going back to work due to a larger number of individuals receiving vaccinations (including themselves), and that they are tired of having the fear of the pandemic rule over their lives. Some customers are still fearful of entering the workforce and are seeking remote work options. While the Delta variant slowed foot traffic in our centers, we are still hearing from job seekers who want to go to work. To accommodate concerns, we gladly continue to offer our services virtually, offering a connection to services without compromising anyone’s individual concerns or preferences.

Under Governor DeSantis’ guidance, the state has encouraged eligible people to return to the workforce through the ‘Return to Work’ initiative. This is reflected by Florida withdrawing from the $300 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation and the expiration of work search and work registration requirements waivers for individuals drawing Reemployment Assistance benefits at the end of June. Jobs remain plentiful while Florida’s economy continues to gain steam.

To support this initiative, we continue to do what we do every day by providing employment services to any and all job seekers and employers who visit or contact our centers. For eligible individuals interested in learning new skills, we offer financial assistance for training. For individuals interested in re-entering the workforce or finding a new career, we offer career guidance, resume editing, job referrals, and more to get you prepared to present your best self and land the job. For employers we can assist you in developing job descriptions, providing labor market information and posting and recruiting for open positions.

CareerSource Gulf Coast proudly serves both our area’s employers and jobseekers. As the tide changes, we will continue to serve our community while adapting to changes and planning for a prosperous full recovery. Come see us!

CareerSource Gulf Coast provides services to job seekers and employers in Bay, Gulf and Franklin Counties. Offices are operated in all three counties. Visit www.careersourcegc.com to learn more about professional workforce development and job placement services, all offered at no charge.