The US added a stunning 336,000 jobs in September—here’s what it means for employers

Economists didn’t see that coming.

The latest jobs data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows the US economy added 336,000 jobs in September, drastically surpassing the 170,000 expected by Dow Jones, as well as the 187,000 added in August, according to CNBC. The unemployment rate, meanwhile, held steady at 3.8%.

“September marks the 33rd consecutive month of job growth for the US,” CNN reported. Industries that saw the most gains included leisure and hospitality; government; healthcare; professional, scientific, and technical services, and social assistance, according to the BLS.

What it means for employers. While the demand for labor is still “quite elevated,” Jared Bernstein, chair of the White House council for economic advisers, told HR Brew, it’s good news for employers, as it means the demand is being met by a better supply.

“I know that sounds like Econ 101, but in fact, in the real world, that kind of alignment is quite important,” Bernstein said. “You want to have demand sort of align with supply pretty well, and if demand is going up, that’s great for the economy.”

Key takeaway. What matters most for employers is that they’re operating in an economic environment that will allow them to fill their open positions from a deep talent pool.

“[Employers have] a pool of workers to draw from,” Bernstein said. “I would say we’re looking at an economy that’s settling into a pretty strong groove in that regard.”