Not since 1969 has the unemployment rate been so low and potential workers so few. The unemployment rate is extremely low in Bloomington, especially, and Brown County. Lawrence, Greene and Owen have a little bit higher rates. There are other factors peculiar to south central Indiana that create an even more dramatic scenario for employers. In Brown County, tourist season hits every fall, requiring the addition of scores of hotel and restaurant helpers.
Many employers are willing to work around things like school events, sports, and vacations.
As long as they give us their schedules ahead of time so that we can plan for these times off, we encourage their activities. In food service, you develop a lot of skills as far as interpersonal relations, such as dealing with co-workers and the public. And the perception is that it doesn't pay well, yet many teens get above minimum wage at restaurants. The enterprising teens such as Parker Ryan prepare themselves with special skills, if needed, and try for jobs they already think they'll love. But many teens are bashful and aren't sure how to approach prospective employers.