Video: Crowds Fill Cracker Barrel For Day 2 Of Hiring

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – If you’re looking for work, you aren’t alone. Right now, nearly 7% of Mississippi’s workers are unemployed.

In fact those numbers are much higher in Lowndes, Monroe, Clay and Noxubee counties.

That may be why so many people are standing in line for a chance to work at a business that is expected to serve travelers along Highway 82.

It’s been talked about for years but this month, Cracker Barrel in Columbus will open their doors for business.

Around 200 people will be hired at the restaurant and country store.

Chase Rogers is a Columbus native, hoping to find work at the restaurant.

“I’m willing to do whatever is possible,” said Rogers.

Rogers is a college student who hopes this opportunity will help him pay for his education.

“I’m going to East Mississippi and it helps out a lot to have a job to help my mom pay for my stuff. I’ve been without a job for 3 to 4 months and it’s been so hard. I worked at Buffalo Wild Wings down the road and to go from having an income to nothing at all, it’s a real struggle,” added Rogers.

Managers expect to see around 2,000 people applying for jobs throughout the week.

Other hopeful applicants say they would be excited to work for a place like Cracker Barrel.

“I feel like it would be a laid back, good environment to work for. I like the country themed feel. I’m excited and I hope I get a job here. And I’m glad they opened in Columbus,” said job applicant Ally Mills.

Hiring will continue for weeks to come.

General Manager Aaron Jenkins says there are certain traits he looks for when interviewing.

“I’m looking for reliability, I’m looking for somebody to be humble, I’m looking for team work but I’m looking for more than just those buzz words. How are you going to be able to convince me you have those characteristics,” said Jenkins.

Cracker Barrel expects to open for business on July 27th.

Interviews will take place from 9 to 5 during the week and from 10 to 2 on Saturdays.
Applications can be picked up at the restaurant.