Job losses are big headlines these days.  But a much unappreciated fact is that a disproportionately large portion of those losses are among temporary workers.  In June, of the 62,000 jobs lost, about half--30,400--were temporary.  

The temporary staffing sector appears to be performing its heroic role, as always, of absorbing the shock of economic change.  Temporary workers, particularly in commercial staffing, are often the first hired, first fired.

As can be seen in the chart below, traditional (non-temporary) workers are losing jobs too, but not only have the losses been light by the standards of economic slowdowns, the rate of decline has moderated over the course of the year.

Still have your job?  Go thank a temp.

P.S. Note to direct hire firms don't give up hope.  This is a positive sign for you.