Monster Employment Index: 9th Mo. of Annual Gain

"The U.S. Monster Employment Index annual growth rate continued to be positive with a 13 percent increase year-over-year, although at a slower rate compared to early summer (see chart above). The Index dropped two points (1 percent) on a monthly basis, as online job demand continued to fluctuate within a two-point margin for the fourth consecutive month.

“Despite the contraction in the annual growth rate, expansion continues in a sustained manner for several large industries and markets over the long term,” said Jesse Harriott, senior vice president and chief knowledge officer at Monster Worldwide. “Conditions also continue to be favorable across the country, with opportunities rising above the levels they were last year in all major metro markets monitored by the Index.”

Highlights include:

1. Compared to year-ago levels, 17 out of 20 industries are showing positive growth trends, with a majority of the industries recording accelerated growth from September. 

2. October marks the ninth consecutive month of positive annual growth rate in online job demand, and marks the seventh consecutive month of double-digit growth staring in April  

3. All major metropolitan markets tracked by the Index are exhibiting positive annual growth compared to last October.