High unemployment rate affecting clothing factory - Washington ESD staffing concerns

High unemployment can be a double-edged sword for manufacturers. Yes, you'll have a larger pool of available workers, but consumer demand typically drops during economic downturns. For clothing specifically, people tend to buy less non-essential items. However, you might find quality candidates who were laid off from other factories and are actively job searching to maintain their Washington ESD benefits.

I was laid off from a textile factory last year and have been on Washington ESD since then. Honestly, I'd jump at the chance for a stable manufacturing job again. The weekly claim requirements mean I'm constantly looking anyway.

I've been trying to get through to Washington ESD for weeks about my claim status and it's been impossible. If you're hiring, that might solve both our problems! The phone system is completely overwhelmed.

From a business perspective, high unemployment usually means lower wages because of increased competition for jobs. But in specialized manufacturing like clothing, skilled workers still command decent pay.

Be careful about people who are just taking jobs to avoid Washington ESD work search requirements. Some folks will take any job then quit after a few weeks.

The Washington ESD job search requirement is actually 3 job contacts per week now. Anyone serious about finding work will be actively applying to multiple places including yours.

I run a small bakery and hired two people who were on Washington ESD last year. Both are still with me and doing great work. Sometimes unemployment gives people time to really think about what they want to do next.

Make sure you understand the Work Opportunity Tax Credit if you're hiring people who've been on unemployment for a while. Could save you some money on taxes.

honestly the whole unemployment system is messed up right now, ive been trying to get my claim sorted for months and cant get through to anyone at washington esd

From an economic standpoint, you're right to be concerned about demand. Clothing is discretionary spending and people cut back during tough times. But work uniforms and basic clothing still sell.

Just remember that people on Washington ESD have to be able and available for work. If someone can't work your schedule or has restrictions, they might not be eligible for benefits anyway.

I was in adjudication for 6 weeks before I finally got someone at Washington ESD to explain what was happening. Turns out there was a simple paperwork issue that could have been resolved in 5 minutes if I could have just talked to someone.

Don't forget about WorkSource Washington if you're looking to connect with job seekers. They have programs that can help match you with qualified candidates who are receiving benefits.

The key is finding people who genuinely want to work in manufacturing long-term, not just taking any job to satisfy Washington ESD requirements. Ask about their previous factory experience and what they liked about it.

My sister works in HR and she says unemployment actually helped them find better workers because people had time to upskill or think about what they really wanted to do. Not everyone, but some really good candidates.

Bottom line is you'll probably find good workers if you offer fair wages and stable employment. People want to get off unemployment and back to earning a real living.

Just make sure you document everything properly when people leave Washington ESD to work for you. Both you and the employee need to report the employment change correctly.

I hope you find good people. There are a lot of us out here who really want to work but just haven't found the right opportunity yet. The job market has been tough.

One more thing - consider offering some on-the-job training even for experienced workers. Every factory does things a little differently and it shows you're invested in their success.

Good luck with your business! Sounds like you're thinking about this the right way - considering both the challenges and opportunities that come with high unemployment.