Read more: Local, Economy, Business, Anthony Hicks, Grier Blackwelder, Sumter, Sykes, Jobs, Job Seeker
Despite company cut-backs and layoffs, there is some relief in sight for a Midlands county with a 14% jobless rate.
"I'm just a go-getter," said job-seeker Anthony Hicks.
That mentality is driving Hicks to apply for a job at Sumter's Sykes Enterprises. He already has a full time job, but in the down economy he's looking for more.
"I look at life like this, three things: I like to pay bills, save money and then spend all simultaneously," said Hicks.
He hopes the nearly 400 available positions at Sykes will help him do just that. Positions at the customer call center are on the front page of the city paper; and it's one of the hottest topics around town.
"400 jobs of any type for any community is certainly a big deal," said Sumter Chamber of Commerce President Grier Blackwelder.
He says the city has seen its share of economic setbacks, but he's hopeful the available jobs are the start of a recovery.
"This will almost take 1% off the unemployment rate for this community, so it is a big deal," said Blackwelder. "Right now our unemployment rate is at 14%."
That's higher than the state average of 12%. But county officials are hopeful the jobs coming are a step in the right direction, when it comes to slashing the high unemployment.
"I think we were just the right community at the right time," said Blackwelder.
It was perfect timing if you ask Anthony Hicks. He says every little bit helps.
"I'm not going to sell myself short, but at the same time I'm not greedy either," said Hicks. "I'm planning to get married next year too, so wedding's cost."
It's added motivation for the Sumter man, hoping to land a new job.
