SHRM: US June job gains show momentum.

July 27, 2021 Mike Smith

Data from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that June 2021 job numbers were the best they’ve been in the last 10 months, with the nation adding 850,000 new jobs.

While the recovery seems to be accelerating, 9.5 million people remain unemployed. About 1.8 million are temporarily laid off, while another 942,000 quit their jobs in June 2021. Workers are reassessing what they want out of life and work, which could include more flexibility, better pay and an employer that cares about their well-being.

on wages. Average wages rose to $30.40 per hour, a 3.6% increase over June 2020. Employers are offering better pay and sign-on bonuses to attract workers back into the labor force.

“Salary expectations have changed as a result of the pandemic,” says Michael Smith, global CEO of Randstad Sourceright. "Employers will need to look closely at market intelligence and data around compensation in their industries to ensure they are offering salaries that are competitive in today's market."

Get a full picture of the June BLS statistics in SHRM. You can also get insights and ideas on building your talent attraction strategies with Randstad Sourceright’s recruiting strategies Insights stream.

About the Author

Mike Smith

As chief executive of Randstad Enterprise, Mike Smith intentionally drives a culture of innovation and collaboration across our Enterprise businesses to build long-term client relationships with the world’s largest corporations. He consistently brings Randstad's “tech and touch” thinking to client conversations to solve complex talent challenges and create sustainable business value and agility.

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