Unemployment rose more than expected and, for only the second time this year, job losses increased from the month before. Temporary employment still remains a glimmer of hope in the job market. Only 1,700 temporary jobs were lost in September (far below job losses seen earlier this year). It is expected this sector will add jobs in October.

The national unemployment rate rose to 9.8%. The rise in the unemployment rate combined with the steep number of jobs losses in September has certainly tempered inflating hopes, yet all is not lost. The BLS September national jobs report indicated that 263,000 jobs were shed in the past month, with the revised number of job losses in August being 210,000. Job seekers should also keep in mind that, despite continued job losses, 3 million American workers did secure jobs in September, so keep looking.

Since the recession began in December 2007, 7.2 million jobs have been lost and the unemployment rate has doubled. The average hourly work week fell back to a record low of 33 hours in September. This number should be watched closely as an increase will indicate a rise in productivity and then, a need to re-hire.