Core Insights - The job market is currently challenging, with applicants facing "ghost jobs," AI workforce integration, and a slow hiring cycle, leading to decreased confidence among job seekers [1] Employment Confidence - The average perceived probability of finding a job after losing one's current role has dropped to 43.1% in December 2025, a decline of 4.2% from the previous year, marking a record low since 2013 [2] - Various demographics, particularly low earners, those without college degrees, and baby boomers over 60, exhibit the lowest confidence in job prospects [3][4] Job Security Concerns - All workers, including those with stable jobs, are anxious about potential layoffs, with the perceived probability of job loss in the next year rising to 15.2%, an increase of 1.4% from the previous year [4] - The expected quit rate over the next 12 months has decreased to 17.5%, indicating a lack of confidence in finding better opportunities [4] Specific Demographic Insights - Baby boomers aged 60 and older have a perceived probability of only 33% of finding a new job if they lose their current role, nearly 10% lower than the national average, attributed to their proximity to retirement rather than AI automation [5]