In the first quarter of 2021, the loss of employment reached 139,800 jobs, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. This is largely due to the destruction of full-time jobs. While part-time positions were created, 59,900 full-time jobs were lost. This means that for every part-time job created, three full-time jobs were lost. In comparison, the relationship was almost one to one in the first quarter of last year.
The professional, scientific and technical sectors, financial and insurance activities, wholesale and retail trade, public administration, defense and social security experienced the most pronounced losses in full-time employment during the first quarter. On the other hand, education, hospitality and commerce saw an increase in part-time positions.
The growth of part-time employment in certain sectors has been influenced by seasonal factors such as Easter falling in March this year. Additionally, the increase in the Minimum Interprofessional Wage may have led to a shift from full-time to part-time jobs in some industries to reduce labor costs.
Overall, despite a slight increase in part-time employment and a shift from full-time to part-time positions during the first quarter of 2021, total hours worked decreased compared to previous years. The number of employed people who are not working due to illness or temporary disability also increased.
In conclusion, analyzing labor market trends requires considering these shifts in employment dynamics as well as other factors such as seasonal fluctuations and changes in wages.