Layoffs and hiring: Understanding today's job market

Layoffs have become a recurring headline this year, with companies in technology, finance, manufacturing and other industries announcing job cuts.

But at the same time, unemployment remains relatively low, applications for unemployment benefits are near historic lows and Minnesota recently added jobs, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

So what's really happening in the job market?

MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about what’s driving recent layoffs, where job opportunities might be, and what it all says about the economy.

Guests:

• Chris Farrell is a senior economics contributor for MPR News and Marketplace.
• Angelina Nguyen is the director of the Labor Market Information Office at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
• Kyle O'Keefe is a district president at Robert Half, a recruiting and business consulting firm.

Subscribe to the MPR News with Angela Davis podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify or RSS.

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.