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As the year draws to a close, Atlanta’s business landscape has felt the sting of a national layoff wave, with at least 11 companies announcing significant workforce reductions in the metro area.
These cuts, totaling more than 1,800 jobs, reflect broader trends in cost-cutting, AI integration, and restructuring driven by economic uncertainty, including tariffs and shifting consumer spending.
Layoffs Growing in Atlanta
While Georgia as a whole saw 28,668 layoffs through WARN notices this year, Atlanta bore a disproportionate share, underscoring vulnerabilities in key sectors like tech, manufacturing, and media.
The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act requires companies with 100 or more employees to report major layoffs or closures, providing a window into the scale of job losses.
Drawing from state filings and local reports, here’s a breakdown of the major announcements affecting Atlanta workers in 2025:Key Layoff Announcements in Atlanta
- CNN (Warner Bros. Discovery): The cable news giant, headquartered in Midtown Atlanta, eliminated about 200 roles in January as part of a pivot to digital platforms. The cuts represented roughly 6% of its workforce and were aimed at reallocating resources to audience-shifting products.
- Block Inc. (Cash App parent): In March, the fintech firm laid off 49 employees from its North Avenue office, about 10% of its local staff of 474. This was part of a companywide reduction of 931 jobs, or 8% globally, amid operational streamlining.
- Americold Logistics: A July WARN notice signaled 12 layoffs at its Atlanta facility, effective in August, though details on the reason were sparse.
- Country Home Bakers LLC: The bakery supplier cut 164 positions in Atlanta in late August, contributing to ongoing consolidation in the food sector.
- General Motors: The automaker shuttered its Georgia IT Innovation Center in Roswell (metro Atlanta) in October, affecting all 325 employees there as part of a corporate restructuring.
- The William Carter Company (Carter’s Inc.): The children’s apparel brand reduced its Atlanta headquarters staff by 189 in October — about 19% of its 998-person workforce — via a WARN notice tied to operational efficiencies.
- Integrated Health Resources, LLC: October filings revealed 107 layoffs at its Peachtree Street office, set for December, impacting healthcare services.
- Cardlytics Inc.: The Atlanta-based marketing tech company slashed 120 jobs (30% of its workforce) in October to curb costs and bolster financial stability, with 90 full-time roles affected.
- Rivian Automotive: The electric vehicle maker announced 600 layoffs in Georgia in October, primarily at its metro-area operations, as part of supply chain adjustments.
- Smurfit Westrock: The packaging giant closed a South Fulton plant in November, leading to 55 job losses effective January 2026.
- CoStar Group: A minor cut of 3 employees was filed in November for its Peachtree Road office, starting January 2026, due to internal reorganization.
These figures represent only reported WARN-eligible layoffs; smaller cuts and non-WARN events may push the total higher.
Nationally, U.S. employers announced over 1.1 million job cuts in 2025 — the highest since the 2020 pandemic — with tech (153,536 cuts) and services sectors leading the charge.
Atlanta-based giants like UPS, which trimmed 48,000 positions globally through September, and Newell Brands, which announced 900 worldwide reductions in December (citing AI efficiencies), likely amplified local impacts, though exact Atlanta numbers remain undisclosed.
Trends Shaping Atlanta’s Job Market
Atlanta’s economy, a hub for logistics, tech, and media, has weathered these storms unevenly. Tech and fintech firms like Block and Cardlytics cited rising costs and AI-driven automation as culprits, while manufacturing outfits such as Smurfit Westrock and Country Home Bakers grappled with supply chain woes and plant closures.
Media’s turbulence, exemplified by CNN’s pivot, highlights the sector’s adaptation to streaming and digital ad shifts.Despite the gloom, experts note silver linings: Georgia’s unemployment rate hovered around 3.5% through November, buoyed by growth in healthcare and renewable energy.
Local workforce programs, administered by the Technical College System of Georgia, have ramped up rapid response services for displaced workers, offering retraining in high-demand fields like cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing.
Final Word
As 2026 looms, Atlanta business leaders urge vigilance. “These layoffs signal a recalibration, not a collapse,” said Metro Atlanta Chamber economist Dr. Maria Lopez in a recent panel. “Investments in upskilling will be key to turning this tide.
“For those affected, resources are available via WorkSource Georgia’s Rapid Response portal. Atlanta Business Pulse will continue tracking these trends — stay tuned for updates on hiring rebounds and policy responses.
Want more job resources? Read our guide on how to navigate a job layoff.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
- How To Write A Resume That Works ForYou In Atlanta (Or Any City)
- The Best Side Jobs In Atlanta Right Now
- 6 Steps To Find A Good Job In Atlanta
AtlantaFi.com is your source for metro business news, trends, and insights. Have a tip? Email us at news@atlantafi.com.
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In a move that could send shockwaves through the Southeast’s telecommunications workforce, Verizon Communications Inc., the nation’s largest wireless provider, is poised to slash approximately 15,000 jobs nationwide as early as next week.
The sweeping cuts, representing about 15% of the company’s U.S. workforce, mark the biggest layoffs in Verizon’s history and come amid intensifying competition in the wireless and home internet markets.
Massive Layoffs Ahead for Verizon
The announcement, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, underscores the pressures facing legacy telecom giants as they grapple with subscriber losses and rising operational costs.
Verizon, which employed around 100,000 people as of February, has already trimmed nearly 20,000 positions over the past three years through voluntary programs and restructuring efforts.
This latest round targets non-union management roles primarily, with additional plans to convert about 200 retail stores into franchised operations—effectively shifting those employees off the company’s payroll.
For Atlanta, a burgeoning hub for tech and telecom innovation, the news hits particularly close to home.
Verizon maintains a significant presence in the Peach State, including its Southeast regional headquarters in Midtown Atlanta and numerous retail locations across the metro area, from Alpharetta to Buckhead to Decatur.
The company employs hundreds—if not thousands—in Georgia, supporting roles in network engineering, customer service, and sales. Local labor experts warn that even a fraction of these cuts could exacerbate unemployment in the city’s competitive job market.
Layoff Cause? Verizon’s Financial Troubles
Verizon’s challenges stem from a brutal industry landscape. The company has hemorrhaged postpaid phone subscribers for three straight quarters, losing 289,000 monthly wireless customers in the first quarter alone—more than double the prior year’s figure.
A bold price-hike strategy earlier this year backfired, alienating price-sensitive consumers who flocked to rivals like T-Mobile and AT&T offering aggressive discounts.
Meanwhile, in the home internet arena, Verizon’s fixed wireless and Fios offerings face stiff competition from cable providers and emerging 5G alternatives.
The layoffs coincide with the recent appointment of Daniel Schulman, former PayPal CEO, as Verizon’s new chief executive.
Schulman, named last month as the company’s lead independent director, has signaled an aggressive overhaul to “fundamentally restructure our expense base.
Despite the turbulence, Verizon reported mixed third-quarter results last month, with revenue up 1.5% to $33.8 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $1.21—beating Wall Street expectations. The firm added 306,000 broadband subscribers, reaffirming its 2025 guidance for 2% to 2.8% wireless service revenue growth.
In Atlanta, reactions are pouring in from affected workers and advocates.
“I’ve given 12 years to Verizon, climbing from retail to operations,” said Marcus Hale, a 38-year-old father of two from Smyrna, who fears for his job at a local store slated for potential franchising. “We’re not just numbers; we’re the ones keeping families connected. This feels like betrayal after all the 5G promises.”
As the cuts loom, investors appear unfazed: Verizon shares rose modestly in afternoon trading. Yet for everyday Atlantans, the human cost is stark.
Corporate Moves, Real Consequences
With Georgia’s unemployment rate hovering at 3.8% and inflation pinching household budgets, the telecom titan’s belt-tightening serves as a stark reminder of corporate priorities in an era of digital disruption.
This story is developing. AtlantaFi.com will provide updates on local impacts, including affected store locations and support resources for workers.
Final Word
We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
- How To Write A Resume That Works ForYou In Atlanta (Or Any City)
- The Best Side Jobs In Atlanta Right Now
- 6 Steps To Find A Good Job In Atlanta
AtlantaFi.com is your source for hyper-local coverage of the stories shaping our city. Stay informed, stay connected.
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In a seismic shift for the tech and logistics sectors, Amazon.com Inc. laid off 14,000 workers early Tuesday, Oct. 28. The commerce giant is poised to slash up to 30,000 corporate positions across its sprawling empire.
The cuts, targeting key departments including logistics, payments, gaming, and the powerhouse cloud-computing arm AWS, mark the e-commerce behemoth’s largest workforce reduction since the post-pandemic downsizing frenzy of 2022-2023, when over 27,000 jobs were eliminated.
Amazon Begins Massive Layoffs of Corporate Employees
This bombshell development, first reported by Reuters and corroborated by sources across Bloomberg, Forbes, and GeekWire, comes amid Amazon’s aggressive pivot toward artificial intelligence (AI) and automation.
CEO Andy Jassy has long signaled a leaner future for the company’s 350,000-strong corporate workforce, emphasizing that AI would supplant human roles in routine tasks.
Internal strategy documents leaked last week projected the replacement of up to 600,000 workers with robots and AI tools by 2033, a vision now accelerating into harsh reality.
A Pandemic Hangover and AI’s Double-Edged Sword
Amazon’s rapid expansion during the COVID-19 boom saw its corporate headcount triple from 2017 to 2022, fueling unprecedented growth in online retail and cloud services.
But as demand normalized, the Seattle-based giant has been on a cost-cutting crusade.
This year’s layoffs already tally around 20,000 roles tied to technological shifts, with another 17,000 explicitly linked to AI implementations, per Forbes analysis.
The impending cuts represent roughly 10% of Amazon’s non-warehouse staff and could rival historic benchmarks, nearly matching Boeing’s 31,000 job eliminations in the wake of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
In the broader tech landscape, Layoffs.fyi reports over 98,000 positions lost across 216 companies in 2025 alone, with Amazon’s move poised to eclipse the sector’s annual total.
For Atlanta’s jobs market, the ripple effects could be profound.
Amazon’s regional footprint includes a major fulfillment center in Forest Park and a burgeoning AWS office in Midtown, employing thousands in logistics and tech roles.
While the layoffs are primarily corporate and Seattle-centric—impacting about 50,000 workers in the Puget Sound area—the Southeast’s logistics hubs may face secondary pressures as supply chain efficiencies ramp up via automation.
Local economists warn that displaced white-collar talent could flood Atlanta’s competitive job market, straining sectors like IT and operations.
“Atlanta has been a magnet for tech jobs, but waves like this remind us of the sector’s volatility,” said Dr. Elena Vasquez, labor economist at Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. “We’re talking high-skill roles—data analysts, project managers—that don’t always pivot easily to warehouse gigs, even with Amazon’s seasonal hiring push.”
Holiday Hiring vs. Corporate Carnage
In a stark juxtaposition, Amazon announced earlier this month plans to onboard 250,000 seasonal warehouse workers nationwide for the holiday rush, including opportunities in Georgia facilities. Yet, corporate staffers face an uncertain Black Friday: Emails detailing terminations are expected to drop Tuesday morning, per CNBC sources
The company’s People Experience and Technology (PXT) division, which encompasses HR and recruiting, is already bracing for a 15% trim—about 1,500 roles from its 10,000-employee roster.
Amazon has declined immediate comment, but Jassy’s prior memos underscore the strategy: “Unregretted attrition” targets—where managers aim for a set percentage of voluntary or forced exits—have become a staple, ensuring the firm sheds “non-essential” overhead.
With capital expenditures surging to over $100 billion in 2025—mostly for AI infrastructure—the message is clear: Efficiency trumps headcount.
Broader Implications for Georgia’s Workforce
Georgia’s tech ecosystem, bolstered by Amazon’s $1.2 billion investment in a cloud region here since 2019, now grapples with the flip side of Big Tech’s innovation drive.
The state added 12,000 logistics and IT jobs last year, per the Georgia Department of Labor, but AI disruptions could temper that growth.
Displaced Amazonians might eye opportunities at rivals like Delta Air Lines’ tech hub or Microsoft’s expanding Atlanta presence, but competition will be fierce.
Labor advocates are mobilizing: The Atlanta-based Jobs with Justice coalition plans virtual town halls this week to support affected workers, offering resume workshops and severance navigation.
“These aren’t just numbers—they’re families, mortgages, and futures,” said organizer Malik Thompson. “Amazon’s profits soared 50% last quarter; workers deserve a safety net, not a pink slip.”
As notifications roll out, Atlanta job seekers are urged to monitor platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed for emerging roles in AI-adjacent fields, where demand remains hot.
Final Word
Amazon’s cuts, while painful, underscore a national pivot: Upskilling in machine learning and data science could be the ticket to weathering the storm.
If you’re been let for from your job, read our guide on how to navigate a layoff.
AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for employment trends, career advice, and economic insights in the Peach State. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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As the leaves turn and the scent of pumpkin spice gives way to evergreen, Atlanta’s job market is lighting up with seasonal opportunities.
With Thanksgiving just weeks away and Black Friday on the horizon, major retailers, delivery giants, and local favorites are ramping up hiring to handle the holiday rush.
These Atlanta Companies Are Hiring Seasonal Workers
This year, companies are seeking thousands of part-time and temporary workers for roles ranging from stocking shelves and ringing up sales to sorting packages and assisting shoppers.
Whether you’re a student home for break, a retiree looking for extra cash, or someone between gigs, these positions offer flexible hours, competitive pay starting around $15–$20 per hour, and sometimes perks like employee discounts.
Experts predict a robust hiring season, with national trends showing retailers adding hundreds of thousands of jobs amid steady consumer spending on gifts and gatherings.
In Atlanta, the metro area’s bustling malls like Lenox Square and Perimeter Mall, plus distribution hubs in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport vicinity, are hotspots for openings.
“The holidays are a great time to dip your toes into retail or logistics,” says career coach Mia Reynolds of Atlanta Workforce Solutions. “Many of these roles can lead to full-time offers if you shine.”
Here’s a roundup of companies actively hiring for seasonal positions in the Atlanta area.
8 Companies Looking for Seasonal Workers
We’ve included direct links to their career pages for easy applying—positions are posted now and filling fast, so check for updates.
- Amazon: The e-commerce behemoth plans to hire 250,000 seasonal workers nationwide, with plenty of spots in Atlanta-area fulfillment centers and delivery stations. Roles include warehouse associates and drivers, paying $19+ per hour on average. Apply at: amazon.jobs
- UPS: Expecting a “holiday hiring spree” of 125,000 roles, UPS is staffing package handlers and drivers at its massive Atlanta facilities. Flexible shifts available, with pay starting at $21 per hour. Apply at: jobs-ups.com
- Macy’s: The department store icon is filling sales associate and stocker positions at Lenox Square and other Atlanta locations. Enjoy 20–30% employee discounts and potential bonuses. Apply at: macys.jobs
- Target: While keeping a lean core team, Target is adding hours for existing staff and hiring selectively for guest advocates and fulfillment experts at stores like those in Midtown and Buckhead. Pay starts at $15 per hour. Apply at: jobs.target.com
- Bath & Body Works: Aiming for 30,000 hires across North America, they’re seeking sales associates at Atlanta-area spots like Greenbriar Mall. Known for fun, fragrance-filled environments and 30% off perks. Apply at: careers.bbw.com
- Michaels: The craft chain needs 10,000 seasonal team members for holiday crafting chaos, with openings at Perimeter Mall and beyond. Ideal for creative types, with pay around $13–$16 per hour. Apply at: jobs.michaels.com
- FedEx: Holiday express roles for package handlers at Atlanta hubs, with flexible part-time shifts and competitive starting wages. Apply at: careers.fedex.com
- Walmart: Supercenters citywide are hiring for stocking, cashier, and online order fulfillment, with opportunities for quick advancement. Pay from $14–$19 per hour. Apply at: careers.walmart.com
- American Eagle Outfitters: Trendy teen retailer filling sales floor spots at Lenox Square, with 40% off employee discounts on AE and Aerie gear. Apply at: jobs.ae.com
- Crate & Barrel: Upscale home goods store seeking seasonal sales pros at Shops Around Lenox. Focus on customer styling and holiday decor setups. Apply at: jobs.crateandbarrel.com
- Trader Joe’s: Quirky grocery chain adding crew members for the bustling holiday aisles at Atlanta stores. Fun vibe, with tasting opportunities and pay around $16 per hour. Apply at: jobs.traderjoes.com
Beyond retail, keep an eye on logistics like DoorDash for delivery gigs or local outfits like Christmas Elves, LLC for holiday decor installers. For more listings, check aggregator sites like Indeed or Glassdoor, filtering for “seasonal Atlanta.”
Pro tip: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service or fast-paced experience, and apply online ASAP—many spots close by mid-November.
Final Jobs
Atlanta’s holiday job scene isn’t just about jingling bells; it’s a chance to earn, network, and maybe snag that perfect gift on discount. Happy hunting, and here’s to a merry, employed season!
We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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The Home Depot – with its sprawling headquarters just north in Atlanta – is making it easier than ever for locals to break into those fields, launching free certifications through its Path to Pro Skills Program that could turn weekend DIYers into full-fledged pros.
The initiative, which kicked off earlier this year and has already trained thousands nationwide, offers no-cost online and in-person courses covering essentials like general construction, electrical work, HVAC systems, plumbing, painting, and more.
Home Depot Is Offering Free Certifications in the Trades
Participants wrap up with official completion certificates, arming them with the basics of jobsite safety, tool handling, material management, and even soft skills like team communication – all tailored for real-world home improvement gigs.
Available in English and Spanish, the program is designed for beginners eyeing a career pivot or seasoned hands looking to upskill, with flexible modules that fit around a 9-to-5.
For Atlantans, this hits close to home. Georgia’s construction sector is booming, with over 200,000 jobs statewide and Atlanta leading the charge amid projects like the $5 billion expansion at Hartsfield-Jackson and the ongoing BeltLine developments.
“We’re not just selling hammers; we’re building futures,” says a Home Depot spokesperson, highlighting how the program connects graduates to Pro Xtra members – local contractors hungry for talent. In metro Atlanta alone, dozens of stores from Buckhead to Decatur host in-person sessions, making it a hop, skip, and a MARTA ride away.
Take Marcus Johnson, a 28-year-old from East Point who’s already enrolled: “I was flipping burgers, dreaming of electrical work. Now, with this free cert, I’m wiring my first job site next month – all from Home Depot’s backyard.”
How To Enroll in the Path To Pro Program
Step 1: Head to the Official Site
Visit pathtopro.com and navigate to the “Free Training” section. Click the prominent “Start Training” button to kick things off. This lands you on the registration page where the magic begins.
Step 2: Check Your Status and Register
If you’ve already got an account, hit “Already Registered” to log in and resume any progress. New to the program? Fill out the basic required fields – like your name, email, and password – then hit “Register.” You’ll be whisked to a quick secondary page for a few more details to complete your profile.
Step 3: Answer Profile Questions
Seal the deal with a short set of demographic and background queries. Expect to share:
- How you heard about the program.
- Basic info like your age group, gender, ethnicity (e.g., Hispanic or Latino), racial background, education level, and military service status.
These help Home Depot tailor resources and track impact, but they’re straightforward and take under two minutes. Once submitted, congrats – you’re officially enrolled! No fees, no tests, and no prior experience required; it’s free and accessible to all aspiring trades folks, from high school grads to career changers.
What Happens Next: Jump into Training and Beyond
Right away, you’ll unlock “Skills Basics” – a foundational course on jobsite safety, tools, materials, and soft skills like communication. Progress through interactive modules at your own pace (they’re mobile-friendly and remember your spot if you log out).
Then, explore “Trades Essentials” tracks tailored to hot Atlanta jobs, such as HVAC or electrical work – complete one for a shiny certificate of completion.Finish up? Get an invite to the Path to Pro Network, Home Depot’s free job board connecting you to local Pro Xtra contractors hiring in real-time. Build your profile there to showcase certs and portfolios, and watch opportunities roll in – all from the comfort of your Atlanta-area home. Got questions? Email Path_to_Pro@homedepot.com for support.
Final Word
Whether you’re a high school grad eyeing trades over college debt or a parent seeking stable hours, Home Depot’s bet is on you. Want an orange apron yourself? Read our guide on how to get hired at Home Depot.
As Atlanta’s housing crunch deepens, this could be the spark that fills those hard-hat voids – one free lesson at a time.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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Inflationary pressures are taking a toll on the U.S. economy and American workforce.
Many industries have begun cutting back. According to layoffs.fyi, nearly 90,000 tech jobs have been lost this year alone.
If you find yourself among the throngs of people laid off, this article can provide some much-needed resources to help you.
What To Do If You’ve Been Laid Off
But don’t despair: There are some proactive things you can do so that you can keep money in your pocket, including finding a job and generating extra cash in the meantime.
What Does Laid Off Mean?
First of all, when it happened to you, the words “laid off,” may have stunned you. I mean, who among us workers is fully able to process those words when they apply to us?
If you’ve been furloughed, it means you’re technically still employed. If you’ve been fired, you don’t qualify for some of the benefits afforded to other categories of job loss.
Also what does laid off even mean? The definition is crucial because it determines whether you’ll be able to collect benefits or not. And that leads us into the initial thing you will want to do when a layoff occurs.
1. Immediate Steps: Get Your Bearings Right Away
The first 24-48 hours are crucial. Don’t panic—focus on protecting your rights and accessing quick support.
Review Your Severance and Exit Package: Read every detail of your severance agreement. Negotiate if possible (e.g., extended health benefits). In Georgia, employers must provide your final paycheck on the next regular payday or within 72 hours if you request it in writing.
Pro Tip: If your layoff involves a group (50+ employees), Georgia’s Rapid Response program kicks in for free workshops on resumes and job readiness.
2. File For Unemployment
Go to your respective Department of Labor and file for unemployment. Your former employer may have given you some guidance on this, but it’s not hard to find.
In Georgia, the Department of Labor’s website has all you need to get started. An added bonus this year is that unemployment recipients will get an additional $600 a week until July 31 due to the CARES Act passed by Congress.
One of the requirements of those who would receive unemployment benefits is that you need to be looking for a job.
Secure Your Finances: Stretch Every Dollar
A layoff hits the wallet hard, but Atlanta has targeted aid to bridge the gap.
- Build a Survival Budget: Track essentials (rent in Midtown averages $1,800/month) and cut non-essentials. Use apps like Mint or YNAB. Aim for 3-6 months of emergency savings if you haven’t already.
- Tap into Local Financial Aid: Beyond UI, check Dislocated Worker Services through WorkSource Atlanta for training funds and low-income support. A U.S. Department of Labor Employment Recovery Dislocated Worker Grant is funding reemployment in Georgia through 2028, covering job placement and upskilling. Visit georgia.org or a local career center for eligibility.
- Explore Food and Utility Help: Atlanta’s community resources include the Atlanta Community Food Bank (for SNAP applications) and Georgia Power’s assistance programs for bills. If you’re in Fulton County, WorkSource Fulton offers free financial counseling.
Quick Financial Checklist Action Item Local Resource Unemployment Filing Apply ASAP dol.georgia.gov Health Coverage Enroll in COBRA HR or healthcare.gov Emergency Funds Apply for grants WorkSource Atlanta (worksourceatlanta.org) Bill Relief Contact providers 211.org (dial 211) In fact, proof of your job search is so important to the state, that they will require you to “certify” every week. That’s why you’ll want to …
2. Launch Your Job Search
Looking for a job is more convenient these days, yet it’s still as hard as it’s ever been. You’ll want to use all means at your disposal to find a job. Here are some resources you’ll want to tap:
- Friends and Family
- Job Sites
- Social Groups (Fraternities, Sororities, etc.)
- Help Wanted Signs
- Posters
If you’re not familiar with it, LinkedIn.com is a great resources for job seekers. Here’s how to use it in your job search.
Atlanta’s job market is resilient—think Delta hubs, CNN Center gigs, and booming green energy. But competition is fierce, so leverage local hubs.
- Polish Your Toolkit: Update your LinkedIn and resume with Atlanta keywords (e.g., “supply chain logistics”). Free resume help is available at American Job Centers, like the Atlanta Career Center at 650 Northside Dr. NW.
- Hunt Smart: Use WorkSource Atlanta’s 24/7 portal (atlworks.org) for job listings, virtual workshops, and employer matches across the 10-county metro area. Target sectors like healthcare (Emory, Grady) or tech (Microsoft’s ATL campus). For dislocated workers, ARC’s Workforce Solutions offers tailored job training in counties like Fulton and DeKalb.
- Attend Local Events: Look online for job fairs and interactions with recruiters. Stay abreast of career fairs by creating a Google Alert which send you hiring opportunities in your area.
3. Secure Health Insurance
When you get laid off or lose your job another way, your former job is required to keep your health insurance for 60 days post-dismissal.
During this crucial time, you’ll want to look for health insurance so that your coverage continues.
You may qualify for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), which is employer-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Contrary to popular belief, COBRA insurance is not free. Your monthly premium will typically cost what you’ve been paying plus a 2% service fee.
4. Network
Another thing you’ll want to do is network, network, network. We mentioned checking with family and friends as well as social groups to help you find a job.
Turn this setback into a pivot. Atlanta’s ecosystem is perfect for reinvention.
- Upskill for Free: Enroll in Georgia Quick Start programs for manufacturing/tech certs, or WorkSource’s virtual career resources for soft skills like interviewing.
- Network Like a Pro: Eventbrite lists gems like the Atlanta Mentorship Breakfast or Tech and Beauty AI networking. Join Atlanta Tech Village meetups or Black Enterprise’s job forums.
- Consider Gig Work: Platforms like Upwork or local spots (TaskRabbit for ATL errands) can tide you over while you search.
You can kick things up a notch by networking online. Join Facebook groups that are job-focused. You can also join “who’s hiring” groups on LinkedIn and other sites.
The bottom line is that you may have to get out of your comfort zone. Talk about yourself, brag about your accomplishments. Some ways to do that are:
5. Start A Side Hustle
While your job search is in high gear, take advantage of the time by looking at what side jobs, projects and hustles you can do to generate income.
Do you like to paint? Maybe you can paint birdhouses or fences? Are you an artists? Perhaps you can do graphics for small businesses or individuals.
If you need some help coming up with ideas, check out our 15 Hobbies You Can Turn Into Side Hustles.
Bonus: Prioritize Your Well-Being: Mental Health Matters
Job loss can trigger stress, anxiety, or isolation—especially in a fast-paced city like ours. Seek support early.
- Access Free Counseling: Samaritan Counseling Center in Atlanta offers sliding-scale therapy (show unemployment proof for reduced rates). NAMI Georgia’s resource finder connects you to peer support groups metro-wide.
- Build a Routine: Exercise at Piedmont Park, join free yoga via Fulton County Libraries, or volunteer with Hands On Atlanta to stay connected.
- Hotlines for Tough Days: Call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line at 1-800-715-4225 (24/7) or text “HOME” to 741741 for crisis support.
Remember: Weekly UI requires three job search contacts, but self-care counts as part of your resilience toolkit.
The U.S. economy is teetering on a recession because of the coronavirus pandemic. If you’ve been laid off, here are some steps you need to take to get back to work.
The bottom line is that even though you may be idle from a working standpoint, you want to stay productive for your mind and wallet’s sake.
Don’t get down on yourself or wallow in pity. Millions of people transition from one job to the next in any given year. In fact, it’s the only way your career can grow.
Metro Atlanta’s hot economy has slowed of late, but that’s OK. There are many ways to make and save money today.
We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best work from home jobs in Atlanta, Georgia
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On Friday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Metro Atlanta jobseekers can attend a free career networking event at Impact Event Center, 2323 Sylvan Road, East Point, hosted by MWI Workforce Institute and Microsoft.
The event offers resume coaching, interview strategies, career resources, and networking with Microsoft hiring managers, including a Datacenter 101 workshop highlighting careers in the fast-growing digital economy.
Ahsan Manji, MWI Workforce Institute Board Member, emphasized the importance of accessible spaces for skill-building and employer connections amid rising demand for AI and digital skills.
The event supports workforce development, aligning with Microsoft’s Datacenter Academy to open doors to high-demand career paths.“Microsoft is dedicated to equipping communities with the skills and opportunities driving the digital world,” said Jon McKenley, Microsoft Senior Community Affairs Manager. “This event connects local residents with employers and provides valuable training for future-shaping industries.”
How To Find a Job in This Economy
- Build a Strong Network: Connect with professionals in your industry through platforms like LinkedIn, attend industry events, and engage in informational interviews to uncover opportunities and gain referrals.
- Tailor Your Application Materials: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job, highlighting relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description to stand out to employers.
- Leverage Online Resources: Use job boards like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, or industry-specific sites, set up alerts for relevant roles, and research companies to target those that match your career goals.
Final Word
In an ever-evolving job market, finding the right career opportunity can feel like navigating a maze. With industries adapting to technological advancements and shifting economic landscapes, job seekers need effective strategies to stand out.
We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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So you’ve landed a pretty good job, but for you to stay, you need to make more money. It’s time to have that talk with your boss.
In this article, we’ll discuss some tailored salary negotiation tips to help you approach your boss to ask for a raise.
These tips are informed by my experience as a supervisor for a major media company and my up-to-date understanding of negotiation practices:
Salary Negotiation Tips
Research Market Rates Thoroughly
Why it matters: In big cities like Atlanta, salaries can range from $22.97/hour to $163,000/year, but these are starting points.
Knowing the market rate for your role and location ensures you don’t undervalue yourself. For example, Glassdoor reports a median Customer Success Manager salary of $84,506/year, with a total pay range of $105K-$187K, depending on experience and company.
How to do it: Use sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, or LinkedIn Salary to benchmark roles. Check the web results—e.g., companies like Buffer or GitLab publish transparent remote salary guides. If it’s a remote job, consider the employer’s headquarters location or employee distribution if available, as this can influence pay scales.
Tip: Cross-reference with the job titles and ranges for a particular job you’re interested in (e.g., Operations Coordinator: $54,500-$95,700) to set a realistic target.
Establish Your Value Before Negotiating
Why it matters: Employers pay for what you bring to the table. Doing what you can to prove your value can justify a higher offer—e.g., for a Customer Success Manager role ($109K-$163K), highlight past success in driving customer retention or revenue.
How to do it: Prepare specific examples of achievements (e.g., “Increased customer satisfaction by 20% in my last role”). Tailor this to your job description or the one you’re applying for.
Tip: Avoid mentioning personal financial needs (e.g., mortgage, debt) as negotiation leverage, as these typically come off as unconvincing to recruiters.
Don’t Accept the First Offer
Why it matters: 54% of candidates don’t negotiate, potentially leaving money on the table. For instance, a $70K-$75K Technical Operations Associate offer could be nudged higher with the right approach.
How to do it: Express gratitude, then counter with a range based on your research (e.g., “I’m excited about the role. Based on my experience and market data, I was hoping for a range of $75K-$80K. Could we explore that?”). The key is to avoid early internal concessions.
Tip: If the salary is fixed, negotiate for other benefits (e.g., remote work flexibility, bonuses).
Use the Salary Range as a Starting Point
Why it matters: Many job postings, for instance, a 100K-$120K Support Experience Coordinator role, provide ranges. Targeting the higher end of a band is appropriate as you can grow into the role within a year.
How to do it: Aim for the upper half of the range if you exceed the job’s requirements. If the lower end is offered, ask what it would take to reach the higher end (e.g., performance metrics).
Tip: If no range is given (e.g., Remote Medical Scheduling Specialist), propose one based on similar roles.
Leverage the Full Compensation Package
Why it matters: If salary negotiations stall, other perks can offset the offer. The LinkedIn article suggests considering benefits like health insurance, stock options, or extra vacation days.
How to do it: Ask about the total compensation package early. For example, if the job is for a Care Coordinator Associate ($22.97-$33.05/hour) offer is low, inquire about signing bonuses or remote work stipends.
Tip: Be prepared to compromise—e.g., accept a slightly lower salary for a robust benefits package.
Practice Your Pitch
Why it matters: Confidence comes with preparation. It’s a known fact that practicing reduces anxiety during real negotiations.
How to do it: Role-play with a friend or record yourself. Focus on articulating your value and handling pushback (e.g., “We can’t go higher than $75K”).
Tip: Time your negotiation after receiving the offer but before accepting, as recommended by LinkedIn.
Be Ready to Walk Away
Why it matters: If the offer doesn’t meet your minimum (e.g., below $54,500 for a job like Operations Coordinator), it’s better to decline than settle. The Harvard PON article warns against self-sabotage in negotiations.
How to do it: Set a personal minimum based on your research and life goals. Politely decline if unmet: “I appreciate the offer, but I’ll need to pass as it doesn’t align with my current expectations.”
Tip: Leave the door open for future opportunities by staying professional.
Final Word
Demand for remote roles remains high thisyear, potentially giving you leverage. However, companies may adjust salaries based on cost-of-living differences across remote worker locations.
As always, inflation and labor market conditions could influence salary offers. Stay updated about the job market and adjust your expectations.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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Waffle House offers flexible schedules, including full-time and part-time options, as well as day, night, weekend, and weekday shifts. This is ideal for students, parents, or those with other commitments.
If you want to get a job at Waffle House, the eatery has many positions that may be a fit for you.
Is It Easy To Get A Job At Waffle House?
You may think it’s easy to get a job at Waffle House, but the truth is that it’s just like any other place of employment There has to be a need.
A quick look at Waffle House job postings around the Atlanta area shows that there is a nearly constant need for good help.
How To Apply At Waffle House
To apply at Waffle House, go to their Careers Page and you’ll see two categories of jobs:
Management Positions
For management jobs, you can make up to $35 an hour in some locations. These jobs typically cover management of the store and supervisory positions. The titles are Manager Trainee, Unit Manager, District Manager and Division Manager.
Here are some features of Waffle House management jobs:
- 3-Month Training Program
- Stock Ownership
- Annual Stock Options Granted – based on % of your compensation
- Career Stock Options Granted – at hire and with each promotion
- Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, Vision, And Life Insurance for you and your family
- Vacation – three 10-day vacations each year
- Paid Maternity Leave – 6 Weeks (8 Weeks for C-Section)
Once you click on the Apply Management button, you’ll need to give out some personal information such as your first and last name, Social Security number and the state you want to work in.
Hourly Positions
For hourly positions, you don’t have to enter your Social Security number. All you have to do is put in the city and state where you want to work.
There’s no need to apply for multiple Waffle House locations; once your application is submitted, it will be shared with neighboring locations.
It’s not easy to get a job at Waffle House, although if the particular location you’re applying at needs the help, if you can fit the schedule, it’s likely that you’ll be hired.
How Much Do You Make In Tips At Waffle House?
Since a server will see so many customers, it’s easy to make anywhere from $5 to $15 off each table. So they will make that on top of their hourly wage.
In Georgia, minimum wage is $5.15 an hour, so if they work a 10-hour shift, a server will make an excess of $50 plus another $50 in tips if they only get $5 per table. That’s more than $100 in one day.
Obviously, if they get more than that per table, they could pull in more than $100 a day.
Final Word
A lot of people jokingly want to know if for Waffle House interviews, they ask you whether you can fight or not. While it’s true that many a fracas has been had late at night in Waffle House, it’s not a requirement nor is it recommended to fight on the job.
If you want to work at Waffle House, the key is to always be professional. And it doesn’t hurt if you know your way around a kitchen.
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If you’re serious about making money from home, you’re going to have to have a strategy you can employ day to day.
To make it happen, you’re going to have to step outside your comfort zone to find creative ways to generate income. No worries, Atlantafi.com is here to help!
One of the key questions people ask themselves is this…
How Can I Make Good Money From Home?
The key is to be open to try new things. Here are some of the best ways to make money from the comfort of your home.
- Sell Your Stuff Online
- Become An Online Tutor
- Start Blogging
- Build Simple Websites
- Rent Out Your Home
- Start An OnlyFans
Let’s explore each of these money-making options before getting into more strategies.
1. Sell Your Stuff Online
If you have a bunch of old things just lying around your home, you might as well make a profit off them. Selling your things online has never been easier. Here are some websites that allow you to sell your things online:
2. Become An Online Tutor
If you’re good in a particular subject like English or math, you can make supplemental income by becoming a tutor.
Virtual learning has dramatically increased because of the coronavirus pandemic, making it a good time to be a tutor. Some sites you need to check out are:
3. Start Blogging
Bloggers make big money these days, but you have to develop a niche and an audience. If you’re interested in entertainment, you’ll have to start small and find a way to break into the business.
If you’re looking at a niche, make sure your content is unique and that your reputation is worth people’s attention. Some top blog sites are:
4. Build Simple Websites
You don’t have to be a web developer to build simple websites for clients and customers. There are some great platforms you can use to charge people good money.
How Much Does A Web Developer Make?
How much you charge to build a website has to do with how large and involved the site is. Also, it depends on if you’ll be running maintenance on the website. For a small website, a cost between $3,000 and $6,000 is reasonable. For a medium-size site, you’ll be looking at around $10,00 and up.
Here are some website platforms you can use:
5. Rent Out Your Home
Photo credit: Rowan Heuvel via Unsplash If you have possession of a family home in another state or perhaps a rental home in your city, one way to make extra cash is to rent out your home.
Here’s How To Rent Out Your Home For Extra Income.
6. Start An OnlyFans
If you’re familiar with OnlyFans, don’t get it twisted: While the site seems to have a large fanbase only interested in intimacy, it’s a legit money-making platform.
OnlyFans is a digital content platform that allows you to charge viewers for photos and videos. You can knit a blanket and make money by showing others how it’s done.
The site charges 5 cent commission for the opening months. If you get just between 1% and 5% of your audience to subscribe, you could make between $1,499 and $7,495 per month, according to the site.
Here’s How To Sign Up For OnlyFans and Make Money Fast.
How Can I Make Money As A Stay-At-Home Mom?
Stay-at-home mothers may feel the particular need to find employment while they are at home with their children. If that’s the case, no problem!
What you moms are going to have to do is look no further than the hobbies you know and enjoy from time to time. Is there money to be made?
Yes, but you’ve got to find an angle. You need a way to turn that past-time of yours into a money-earning side job.
Here are some ideas:
- Use Grocery Shopping Apps
- Fill Out Surveys Online
- Sell Old Baby Clothes
- Hire Yourself Out on Fiverr
If you’re into fast cash, you may be looking to score money much quicker than it times it takes to build a viable side business.
How Do I Make An Extra $1,000 A Month?
The way you make an extra $1,000 a month is by getting side jobs that pay quickly. These are not opportunities that pay you a little bit at a time.
- Become A Pet Sitter
- Become A House Sitter
- Work As A Customer Service Rep
How Can I Make $100 A Day?
If you want to make $100 a day, you’re going to have to plan your strategy in a way that’s profitable every24-hour day period.
If you can land a freelance gig, you can earn in excess of $100 daily.
You can also day trade on the stock market to earn that kind of money, but you need to know what you’re doing.
Final Words
I want to emphasize that there are no get-rich-quick schemes out there that pay money each day and are legal. That’s not how it works.
To make money from home you’re going to have to come up with an idea for a product or service that has been tested and proven. But there’s hope.
You can always get a work-from-home job.
Metro Atlanta has a hot economy and that means employers are hiring at a rapid pace. We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best work from home jobs in Atlanta, Georgia
