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40,000 New Unemployment Claims in TN, But "Essential" Employers Now Hiring

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A growing number of Tennesseeans are filing for unemployment during the coronavirus shutdowns—nearly 40,000 in the past week, up from 3,000 the week before. About 10 percent of new claims are from the Greater Memphis area.

These staggering increases, combined with a recent survey by the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce, show just how quickly the virus has taken an economic toll locally.

Out of 250 area businesses surveyed, about 30 percent have—for the time being—closed their doors or offices. Roughly the same percentage has already laid off at least some workers.

The restaurant and hospitality industries, which comprised roughly 20 percent of respondents, have been some of the hardest hit with layoffs.

Other sectors appear to be relatively safe. Apryl Potter, a marketing officer for the chamber, says long-time foundations of the local economy such as logistics, distribution, healthcare and agriculture are expected to keep it afloat.

Credit Miles Kovarik
All bars and restaurants in Shelby County were ordered to close by March 22. Carryout and delivery services are still available.

“We think because [they are considered essential], we’ll see some continued job growth in those sectors that will hopefully help our region—during this difficult time—maintain more jobs,” she says.

The chamber has launched a new website connecting people to businesses with immediate job openings. The 40 or so companies include big names like FedEX, Amazon and Kroger. Other employers are seeking mechanics, nurses, machinists and mental health professionals. A few even offer enticing bonuses or extra pay.

Employee safety is also a growing concern as more and more companies see employees infected with COVID-19. Potter says many companies are changing practices to reduce exposure. 

“Things like rotating shifts of workers—so you may have a group of 10 employees at a time working for a week in the office, and then those employees are rotating out,” she says.

The chamber found that half of all businesses have transitioned employess to work remotely, a flexibility that local officials encourage, but isn’t a luxury afforded to all.

Local shelter-in-place restrictions have also curtailed employers ability to host large job fairs where they can hire en masse.

“It’s so early right now to be able to really tell whether or not these impacts are going to be short or long-term,” Potter says.