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The American employment landscape is constantly changing. Keep up-to-date with the most recent trends with our monthly Employment Update. All figures are provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the America Staffing Association.
Acara’s Shannon Callahan and Stephanie Amos provide a brief video overview of the latest trends in the employment landscape and what they signify for the future of employment in the U.S.
The unemployment rate edged down to 4.0 percent in January, after accounting for the annual adjustments to the population controls.
The number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks or more), at 1.4 million, changed little in January.
The labor force participation rate, at 62.6 percent, changed little over the month and has remained in a after accounting for the annual adjustments to the population controls.
In January, average hourly earnings for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls rose by 17 cents, or 0.5 percent, to $35.87.
The number of people employed part time for economic reasons, at 4.5 million, changed little in January.
The number of people not in the labor force who currently want a job, at 5.5 million, was little changed in January.
Temporary help employment was 1.59% of total nonfarm employment in January.
Temporary help jobs in January decreased -6.1%, seasonally adjusted, from the same month last year.
Total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 143,000 in January.
Notable job gains occurred in
Health care (+44K)
Government (+32K)
Retail trade (+34k)
Access Acara's Employment Update in PDF Format
Acara summarizes the latest industry trends each month to keep you informed as you make decisions about the future of your business.
Recent return-to-office (RTO) mandates have sparked controversy and debate across various sectors. The new administration recently issued an executive order requiring federal employees to return to their workplaces full-time “as soon as practicable.” This move has been met with dismay from many government workers who have grown accustomed to remote work arrangements
75% of workers required in office, up from 63% in 2023.*
The return-to-office (RTO) mandate is significantly impacting employees’ mental health, with 58% reporting a negative effect on their well-being. This transition is causing increased stress and anxiety for many workers, stemming from factors such as loss of flexibility, commuting hassles, and social pressures.
Communication and Transparency
Flexibility and Support
Mental Health Support
Skills-based hiring represents a paradigm shift in talent acquisition, focusing on an individual’s actual capabilities rather than their academic background. This approach recognizes that practical skills, demonstrated competencies, and potential are often more predictive of job performance than traditional markers of professional readiness.
As the job market continues to evolve, skills-based hiring is not just a trend but a fundamental reimagining of talent acquisition. Organizations that embrace this approach are positioning themselves to attract, retain, and develop the most adaptable and capable workforce.