ATLANTA — The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) reported that the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 7.5 percent in November, the highest rate in more than 25 years. The jobless rate was up 3.0 percentage points from 4.5 percent at this same time last year. The November unemployment rate was up six-tenths of one percentage point from a revised 6.9 percent in October.
“Job losses are accelerating throughout most of the state’s economic sectors, with the exception of health care, education, and the federal government,” State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond said. “Although it may be difficult to find a job in this environment, it is not impossible.”
Thurmond encouraged jobseekers to remain positive and take advantage of the employment services offered by the Georgia Department of Labor. The department’s Web site www.dol.state.ga.us includes easily accessible listings of current job openings, as well as information about job search, career planning, and education and training opportunities. A complete listing of all 53 career centers is also provided.
In addition, Thurmond called on Georgians to consider upgrading their skills and employability by enrolling at one of the state’s two-year colleges and technical colleges. He was joined in his call by Georgia Perimeter College President Dr. Anthony Tracoli. Dr. Tracoli indicated that “Georgia Perimeter College and all of Georgia’s two-year colleges are poised to help Georgia workers retool for the changing workplace by providing affordable, accessible quality education.”
The last time Georgia posted a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate at this level was in July 1983 when the rate was also 7.5 percent. The state rate remained above the national rate of 6.7 percent for the 10th straight month. At present, 365,244 unemployed Georgians are looking for work.
Over the last year, the number of payroll jobs decreased 94,400 or 2.3 percent. Manufacturing, construction, and trade, along with administrative and support services, including temporary employment agencies, were especially hard hit.
