Key phrases in the Handbook
The following boxes explain how to interpret the key phrases used to describe projected changes in employment. It also explains the terms used to describe the relationship between the number of job openings and the number of job seekers. The description of this relationship in a particular occupation reflects the knowledge and judgment of economists in the BLS Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections.
Changing employment between 2006 and 2016 |
If the statement reads: | Employment is projected to: |
Grow much faster than average | increase 21 percent or more |
Grow faster than average | increase 14 to 20 percent |
Grow about as fast as average | increase 7 to 13 percent |
Grow more slowly than average | increase 3 to 6 percent |
Little or no change | decrease 2 percent to increase 2 percent |
Decline slowly or moderately | decrease 3 to 9 percent |
Decline rapidly | decrease 10 percent or more |
Opportunities and competition for jobs |
If the statement reads: | Job openings compared with job seekers may be: |
Very good to excellent opportunities | More numerous |
Good or favorable opportunities | In rough balance |
May face, or can expect, keen competition | Fewer |
Last Modified Date: December 18, 2007
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