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Recent Editions
Human Times
North America
The job market is stabilizing, but workers are losing their advantage. In 2026, the labor market has added an average of 87,000 jobs per month, which is an improvement from 2025 but significantly lower than 2024's figures. "We're a ways off from the days of 8m or more job openings," said Sneha Puri, economist at Indeed Hiring Lab. Job openings have decreased from 12.3m in March 2022 to 7.3m in July 2026. As firms focus on retaining employees, job seekers must be patient and strategic in their approach. Amy Glaser, senior vice president at Adecco, emphasized the importance of soft skills in the current market. The wage gap between job switchers and stayers has narrowed, indicating a shift in hiring dynamics. Industries like healthcare and manufacturing are currently hiring, while others remain volatile. For those employed, it's a time to celebrate, but job seekers should prepare for a more selective market.
Full Issue
Human Times
UK
Nearly half a million graduates entered the workforce this summer carrying average student debt of £47,730, while graduate vacancies are forecast to fall 7% in 2026. Employers now receive about 140 applications per graduate job, compared with 38 two decades ago, and increasingly use online tests and one-way virtual interviews to manage demand. Graduates describe the process as lengthy, impersonal and uncertain, with 35% believing AI is damaging their career prospects. However, employers including Accenture argue AI could instead shift junior roles towards higher-value work. Raena Connelly, Accenture’s UK and Ireland head of HR, said: “We see AI changing early careers rather than diminishing them.” Universities are also expanding placements, internships and careers support as students increasingly view degrees as routes to employment. Employers continue to emphasise critical thinking, judgment, communication and other human skills, while economic growth remains central to improving graduate opportunities.
Full Issue
Human Times
Europe
Germany's job market is facing a significant downturn, with around 15,000 jobs lost monthly in the industrial sector, according to the Institute for Employment Research (IAB). This trend increasingly affects highly qualified professionals, including managers and executives, with a reported 14% rise in unemployment among leaders. Many are struggling to find new roles, often facing emotional challenges and financial pressures. Nils Schmidt, head of the Association for Skilled Workers, noted: "We are experiencing everything," as job seekers navigate a difficult landscape. The situation highlights the need for resilience and adaptability in the current job market.
Full Issue
Human Times
Middle East
More than 14,000 private sector companies in Dubai will receive specialised Agentic AI training through the new Dubai Chambers Academy, as the emirate accelerates business adoption of the technology. The programme will provide practical guidance on using AI agents to improve productivity, operations, decision-making, efficiency and growth, while helping companies identify suitable applications and prepare for AI’s expanding workplace role. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, chair of Dubai Chambers, said Agentic AI “can help manage complex tasks, enable more effective decision making, enhance productivity, and create new opportunities for growth.” The wider initiative also includes support for developing and deploying Agentic AI solutions, incubators, knowledge sharing and capacity building. An Executive Committee for Agentic AI has also been established to accelerate adoption and strengthen Dubai’s position as a global digital economy and future industries hub.
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