While the job market sputters, seasonal hiring offers a lifeline

Job Market Overview - The job market is currently challenging for job seekers, with limited hiring announcements and a tough environment for securing positions [2][6]. - Employment is expected to weaken further in the fourth quarter, with minimal gains projected for 2026, indicating a "jobless boom" driven by factors such as federal workforce cuts and immigration restrictions [3]. Seasonal Hiring Trends - Seasonal hiring for the upcoming holiday period is projected to be the smallest since the 2009 recession, with only a few companies committing to increased staffing [6][7]. - Factors affecting seasonal hiring include ongoing tariffs, inflationary pressures, and a reliance on automation and permanent staff rather than large seasonal hires [7]. Opportunities for Job Seekers - Short-term contracts or seasonal positions may provide pathways for frustrated job seekers to transition into full-time roles [4]. - Historical trends show that postings for holiday seasonal contract workers typically increase in September and peak in November, although this year’s hiring pace has been cautious [8].