All articles tagged with #employment trends
Contrary to popular belief, jobs most exposed to AI automation are actually experiencing higher growth and wage increases, with AI enhancing productivity rather than displacing workers. However, young entry-level workers face significant challenges, including reduced job opportunities and layoffs, which may be influenced by broader economic factors rather than AI alone.
Store Santa job postings have decreased by 35% in 2025 due to retail cutbacks, mall closures, and a shift to online shopping, but wages have increased to a median of $25 per hour, with employers now favoring candidates with real beards, reflecting a shrinking but higher-paid Santa workforce.
A record number of young Chinese are flocking to government jobs due to economic uncertainties, private sector layoffs, and a desire for stability, with competition for these roles becoming extremely fierce amid a slowing economy and waning confidence in higher degrees for better employment prospects.
The latest U.S. jobs report reveals concerning trends including a slowdown in job creation since April, rising Black unemployment, growth concentrated in health and social services sectors, significant manufacturing job losses, and a surge in teen unemployment, indicating potential ongoing challenges in the labor market.
Recently, wage growth for workers who stay in their jobs has surpassed that of those switching roles, marking a rare shift since 2009. This trend benefits long-term employees in white-collar sectors, as companies become more hesitant to hire and pay higher wages for new employees. While job switchers face a tougher job market and often accept lower pay, stayers are experiencing increased wages and job security, making the 'Big Stay' a notable trend in the current economic climate.
The U.S. labor market showed signs of retightening in October, with job openings and voluntary quits experiencing significant increases, while layoffs and discharges decreased. This rebound, despite disruptions from the Boeing strike and hurricanes, suggests a strengthening demand for labor. The Federal Reserve is reconsidering the pace of rate cuts, initially prompted by perceived labor market cooling, as the latest data indicates a potential re-heating of the job market.
A new survey by the National Society of High School Scholars reveals that Gen Z's job preferences are shifting away from tech giants like Google and Amazon towards healthcare and government roles, driven by a desire for job stability and meaningful work. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of frontline healthcare jobs, and the recent tech layoffs have tarnished the industry's appeal. Additionally, many young people are showing interest in entrepreneurship, using traditional jobs as a safety net while they explore their own ventures.
Recent college graduates are struggling to find jobs despite having degrees, as the current job market favors roles that do not require a bachelor's degree. Labor analysts note a bifurcation in the labor market, with high demand in trades and service industries but fewer opportunities for degree holders. Experts suggest that focusing solely on degree attainment is insufficient, emphasizing the importance of soft skills and adaptability. The job market's complexity and evolving requirements are causing frustration and mental health challenges among new grads.
Charles, a consumer product professional, earned over $300,000 in 2021 by secretly juggling multiple remote jobs. However, the job market for remote roles has declined, with companies shifting to in-person or hybrid models. Despite the challenges, Charles continues to manage two remote jobs to avoid commuting and maintain his income.
The number of older workers in the U.S. has nearly doubled in the past 35 years, with 19% of Americans aged 65 and older now employed. These older workers are earning higher wages, with the typical worker aged 65 or older earning $22 per hour in 2022, compared to $13 in 1987. They are also working more hours, more likely to have a college degree, and have increased access to employer-provided benefits. Older workers now account for 7% of all wages and salaries paid by U.S. employers, triple the share in 1987. They are also more satisfied with their jobs compared to younger workers. The demographic makeup of the workforce has also changed, with more women and increased racial and ethnic diversity among both older and younger workers.
Some industries are experiencing growth in employment, while others are facing declines. Construction and healthcare sectors are seeing positive job growth, while manufacturing and information sectors are experiencing losses. The retail trade is under pressure from e-commerce operations, while leisure and hospitality are almost back to pre-pandemic levels. Government employment, particularly at the federal and local levels, has seen modest growth.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has released projections on the fastest growing and declining industries in terms of employment change between 2021 and 2031. The leisure and hospitality sector dominates the list of fastest growing industries, with event promoters, amusement parks, and performing arts companies leading the way. The health care and social assistance sector also shows significant growth, particularly in individual and family services. On the other hand, tobacco manufacturing and CDs & tapes manufacturing are expected to experience the largest declines in employment. The rise of generative AI and demographic trends like slower population growth and an aging workforce further complicate the future employment landscape.
The Future of Jobs Report 2023 highlights smart technologies as the key drivers of the fastest-growing jobs, while also identifying green jobs as a significant area of growth. On the other hand, roles in declining industries such as manufacturing and construction are expected to decrease in demand.