This Week in CQ Researcher

Jobs Outlook
by Peter Katel, June 4, 2010

Is a college education important?

The economy has finally started to grow again, but more than 8 million jobs that disappeared after the economic crisis began in late 2007 haven’t returned, and the unemployment rate is nearly 10 percent. To be sure, 290,000 jobs have been added, but the jobless rate remains high. People who do have jobs are working harder, increasing productivity. In another major change on the job front, advances in technology are intensifying the allure – to employers – of offshore jobs.

What’s the best strategy for getting a job in today’s tough job market? Experts may argue over how many jobs are at risk, but no one disputes that a college degree gives by far the best salaries and the best odds for finding a job – and the ability to switch careers if necessary. Demand is also rising at the low end of the market, but mid-level jobs that fall in between the two extremes may be most at risk.

• Is the job market most dynamic only at the high and low ends of the scale?
  
• Does offshoring present a major threat to U.S. jobs?
  
• Are “green” jobs an important source of new employment?
  

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