Despite geopolitical conflict compromising labor certainty, the U.S. job market absorbed the shock.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) monthly survey showed 115,000 added jobs amid a stagnant unemployment rate of 4.3 percent. This is the third month of reported job growth, although the labor force continues to shrink. As a result, the limited labor supply could impact staff hiring and retention efforts.

Another ongoing trend is the decline in federal government positions. Since October, overall employment has reduced by 11.5 percent. This steady downturn in numbers can impact commercial cleaning companies by reducing services for this consumer sector.

On the other hand, healthcare—another major customer base for cleaning industry professionals—has seen steady gains. In April, 37,000 jobs were added, with job growth in both nursing and residential care facilities. Job creation in this field has fueled labor market growth, with consistent increases for months.

While the numbers surpassed initial economic estimates, the effects of the Iran War remain to be seen. Although average hourly earnings rose by 0.2 percent, the gap between wages and inflation is narrowing. Coupled with elevated gas prices, consumer spending may decline and impact the labor market.

To learn more about the current labor market, read the April report.