The Monster Worldwide Inc. (NASD: MNST) employment index fell seven points to a reading of 143 in November from October. It was down 40 points compared with November 2007.

"With the end of the year approaching, overall demand for seasonal workers, including temporary retail positions, looks to be limited," said Jesse Harriott, senior VP and chief knowledge officer at Monster. "The dim outlook for this year's holiday shopping season appears to have helped to negate the typical seasonal hiring lift the index has seen in past years."

Monster's index is based on a review of online job ads.