KALISPELL — Many businesses remian closed due to coronavirus concerns, and nationwide unemployment numbers keep rising.
"We went from 3.4 to 4.4 within a month which is unheard of. So, the unemployment rate is just sky-rocketing," said Express Employment Professionals owner Jordan Nelson.
Nelson told MTN News said that there is hope in the Flathead Valley because some companies are hiring.
"Finance and accounting, with all the new loans that came out, there's been more assistance needed for that," he said. "We've seen that. And then the other big thing that people don't think about is sales. Sales industries are trying to power through it. So, we've actually had some sales people pick up during this time."
Some unexpected jobs are opening up, inclduing those in the sanitation industry.
"Businesses that are essential that are still working, those businesses are requiring sanitation workers to go in between different shifts and go wipe down the machines and these things," said Nelson.
Nelson encourages people to brush up on various skills while at home. He explained that hiring managers are looking for people that are being active during this time and that are refreshing their skills. The more skills you have the more attractive you will be to hiring managers.
Job Service Kalispell manager Laura Gardner said that they have 17 locations statewide. She explained that their many resources are free for Montanans.
"We can help them find training programs to get new skills and credentials that they may need to transition into a new career," said Gardner. "We do have training funding available that can help people go back to school."
Gardner said while their offices aren't physically open, Job Service Kalispell is available over the phone or by email. Gardner recommends that those interested in open jobs should visit careeronestop.org.
Nelson suggested Facebook jobs and searching by whatever town you're the closest to. Both Express Employment Professionals and Job Service Kalispell are essential businesses and remain open.
Express Employment Professionals can be reached at (406) 257-2255. Contact Job Service Kalispell by calling (406) 758-6200 or sending an email to KalispellJSC@mt.gov.
