The Monster Worldwide Inc. (NASD: MNST) employment index fell three points month-over-month in June to a reading of 163. The index was down 23 points from its year-ago reading of 186.

June's contraction in the index was relatively mild and in keeping with historical trends showing a more moderate recruiting environment heading into the summer months, according to Jesse Harriott, VP of research at Monster.

The index is based on a review of online job ads.