Small employers hiring around Memphis (update)

A friend who works at a local manufacturer says there are openings not advertised online. It has been a long 15 weeks. They like a brief email with a résumé. Should I visit in person?

Small employers often hire on recommendation. Ask neighbours, former co-workers and your library.

Thanks for writing this out. I went through something close to it last year, and it got easier once I kept a simple log of every call and form.