Group 1 - The job market in 2025 was particularly challenging for unemployed Americans, with economists and job seekers noting significant difficulties [1] - Applicants faced numerous obstacles, including 'ghosting' by recruiters, a competitive job pool, age discrimination, and AI screening of résumés [2] - Hiring rates in 2025 were the weakest since 2003 outside of recession years, with only 50,000 new jobs added in December, falling short of expectations [4] Group 2 - Concerns about job security were prevalent, with 55% of Americans worried about potential layoffs, reflecting a surge in layoffs totaling over 1.2 million, a 58% increase from 2024 [5] - Major companies, particularly in the technology sector, experienced significant workforce reductions, with firms like Microsoft, Amazon, and Verizon laying off large numbers of employees [6] - Business uncertainty was heightened due to fluctuating trade policies and tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, leading to hesitance in hiring [6]
US saw pandemic-level layoffs in 2025, and 2026 job growth may be 'uncomfortably slow.' What to do in a tough job market
Yahoo Finance·2026-01-30 14:00