Unemployment Rate

Representational Models

from the Bureau of labor Statistics

Summary of Problem:

The unemployment rate has continued to be a problem in the United States, which has now been aggravated with the Covid-19 Pandemic. According to the graph from the unemployment rate remains at double (8%) the amount from before the pandemic (4%). The table on the right shows that roughly 12.5 million people are still unemployed in the United States as of September 2020. With this many people unemployed the economic stress is high; many people unable to pay their bills, companies going out of business, and the government having to step in. Although the unemployment rate has lowered considerably since the start of the pandemic (15%), it remains very high we as people need to consider how to get through these hard times together.

What Can We Do

To be able to think of different ways to help improve the employment rate in a safe and effective way we must think in different perspectives of the people. Here are some of the bigger perspectives to consider.

Student Perspective Students should learn about the current work environment to better prepare for the future. They should plan their career path ahead of graduation, so that they can consider their options to join the work force. This is important because with the economy in disarray, having a clear career plan will help guide the students.

People Perspective People should vote and be more involved in the government, so that their concerns are heard. People who need the extra help should contact the correct officials, like EDD. There are some links below for people living in California.

Business Perspectives Change structure of their business to reopen, such as going online or moving furniture to comply with government safety guidelines. Another way is the shift of focus to manufacturing medical supplies for Covid-19 prevention, such as mask and gloves. Which would not only allow the company to remain open but help provide equipment for people who are lacking in supplies.

Leadership Perspective Managers of companies and Deans/Presidents of colleges should push for programs to help those under them with the transitions. For example, managers need to think of the perspectives of parent workers who may not work due to their child staying home for distanced learning, which may be solved by childcare services. The government should consider passing another stimulus check or push for unpopular business to create more jobs, such as agriculture.

Helpful Links

Eligibility for EDD

File for Unemployment

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance

Contact California EDD

Locate an American Job Center near you

A Saelee takes full responsibility for the information posted. The information on this page represents that of A Saelee and not that of California State University, Sacramento.