JOLTS (job openings and labor turnover survey) definition

A monthly snapshot of the US labour market that shows how many jobs are opening up, how many people are being hired, and how many are quitting or being laid off

Home Investing glossary JOLTS (job openings and labor turnover survey)

What is JOLTS?

The JOLTS report is a monthly snapshot of the US labour market that shows how many jobs are opening up, how many people are being hired, and how many are quitting or being laid off. Think of it as a way to peek behind the curtain and see how ‘sticky’ the job market really is.

 

What does JOLTS look at?

  • Job openings: the number of positions employers are actively looking to fill.
  • Hires: how many people actually got new jobs that month.
  • Quits: how many workers voluntarily left their jobs (often a sign of confidence).
  • Layoffs and discharges: how many people were let go.

 

Why is JOLTS important?

Economists and investors watch JOLTS because:

  • High job openings often mean a tight labour market, which can push wages (and inflation) up.
  • Rising quits suggest workers feel confident they can find better roles.
  • Layoff trends can flag trouble ahead for the economy.

Released around mid‑month, JOLTS adds colour to headline jobs numbers by showing why the labour market is shifting—so you can see whether it’s an employer shortage, worker confidence, or cost‑cutting measures driving the story.

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