December’s jobs report was anticipated as a way of seeing if the economy would continue to rebound, or if the path to recovery would continue to be one with ups and downs. The temporary sector added jobs for the fifth consecutive month – an increase of 47,000 jobs.

December’s unemployment rate stayed at 10.0%. The number of hours worked by employees was also unchanged, but average hourly earnings increased by $.03.

While these numbers were not as good as hoped for, experts still believe that job losses could hit zero, with job growth potentially beginning in the first quarter of 2010. Holiday retail sales and manufacturing reports both contained positive news which could improve the outlook on the economy.

Based on this cautious optimism, many clients are looking at flexible methods of increasing their workforce based on business demands as the recession begins to ease up. Temporary or contract based employment is an excellent way to move forward on business plans before committing to permanent hiring.