BGSF March 2025 Jobs Report: Hiring Accelerates as Labor Market Holds Steady

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228,000 jobs. That’s how many were added in March according to the BLS — marking one of the strongest months for job growth so far in 2025. Despite ongoing economic uncertainty and modest cooling signs earlier this year, employers are clearly still hiring — and they’re moving fast.

The unemployment rate held steady at 4.2%, continuing a nearly year-long trend of relative stability. But underneath that headline number, there are important shifts happening that matter for both businesses and job seekers. At BGSF, we’re paying close attention — and we’re here to help you navigate it all.

Key Takeaways from March:

• Payrolls jumped by 228,000, far outpacing the 12-month average of 158,000.

• Unemployment remains low at 4.2%, with little change across most demographics.

• Healthcare, social assistance, transportation, and retail led the way in job growth.

• Professional and Business Services held steady, while Finance and Rental/Leasing saw modest gains.

• Federal employment declined, continuing a downward trend.

• Wages rose by 0.3% month-over-month and are up 3.8% over the past year.

Industry Highlights

🔍 Professional & Business Services: Holding the Line

While March didn’t bring major gains in this sector, employment remained stable — which is notable in today’s market. Temporary help services were flat, but management and consulting services held steady, signaling continued demand for specialized expertise.

“We’re seeing a consistent demand for high-impact talent across consulting, accounting, and operational roles,” said Eric Peters, President of BGSF’s Professional Division. “Businesses are being selective — but they’re hiring. They want people who can deliver results right out of the gate.”

🏢 Rental and Leasing: Quiet but Positive

Employment in the rental and leasing services industry showed a small but notable increase, adding 2,200 jobs in March. That’s a solid recovery following a flat February and part of a steady upward trend over the past year.

“We continue to see strong demand for property management professionals — especially in markets with growing multifamily housing,” said Kelly Brown, President of BGSF’s Property Management Division. “Clients are expanding their portfolios, and they need skilled people to manage the day-to-day operations and resident experience.”

💼 Finance and Accounting: A Stabilizing Trend

After a slower start to the year, finance and insurance added around 3,000 jobs in March. The gains were modest, but they mark a stabilizing trend that’s encouraging after recent volatility. Employers remain cautious but are investing in roles tied to compliance, auditing, and financial planning.

🔍 What This Means for Employers

The labor market may be steady on the surface, but competition for talent is heating up in key sectors.

March’s strong job growth signals that many employers are still hiring aggressively — particularly in healthcare, logistics, retail, and pockets of professional services. If you’re waiting weeks to make decisions, you may already be losing out to faster-moving competitors.

Wage growth remains moderate at 3.8% year over year, but that doesn’t mean you can undercut the market. Candidates have options, and they’re paying attention to both compensation and career path. Flexible work arrangements, clear growth opportunities, and speed in the hiring process are becoming non-negotiables.

💡 What This Means for Job Seekers

March showed that the job market isn’t cooling — it’s shifting. And that shift could work in your favor.

Sectors like transportation, healthcare, and social assistance are adding jobs fast. Even traditionally stable fields like professional services and finance are showing signs of renewed hiring. But employers are being more strategic than ever — they want candidates who bring immediate value.

That means it’s time to refine your story. What impact did you have in your last role? How have you helped your team or company grow? Be specific, and be ready to show it in interviews. A polished resume and LinkedIn profile are no longer nice-to-haves — they’re essential.

And if you’re one of the 5.9 million people currently outside the labor force but open to work, this is your sign: Now’s the time to re-engage. The opportunities are out there — and BGSF is here to help you find the one that fits.

At BGSF, we’re here to help both businesses and job seekers navigate these shifts. Whether you’re looking to hire top talent or land your next role, we’ve got the expertise to guide you. Let’s connect and make 2025 a year of opportunity! Contact BGSF today!

About BGSF

BGSF is a leading workforce solutions provider that connects employers with top talent across industries such as property management, professional services, IT, and managed solutions. With a commitment to building strong partnerships, BGSF delivers innovative staffing strategies that empower businesses and job seekers alike.

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