Monster’s employment index of online job posting activity in the U.S. increased to a reading of 156 in October, up three points from September’s reading, Monster Worldwide Inc. reported. The index is up five points from its October 2011 reading.

Thirteen of the 19 industries monitored for the index showed annual growth. Top industries include construction, up 17 percent; retail trade, up 10 percent; real estate and rental and leasing, up 9 percent; wholesale trade, up 8 percent; and transportation and warehousing, up 8 percent.

The index is based on a review of online job ads taken from a selection of websites, including Monster.com.