Dive Brief:

• Thanks due in part to retailers increased hiring for the 2016 holiday season, the U.S. added some 216,000 new jobs in November despite concerns regarding the impact of the presidential race, according to a report from The Hill. 
• Additionally, the Commerce Department reported a growth rate of 3.2% in Q3, nearly three times that of Q1 2016. Reportedly, incomes also jumped in October, meaning more consumers have disposable income to spend on holiday shopping this December.
• Ahu Yildirmaz, head of ADP Research Institute, told The Hill that consumers are feeling more confident, and that they are the driving force behind the job market's gains.

Dive Insight:

The increased seasonal hiring rate around the nation is good news for many, especially since much of it is driven by increased salaries and more retail demand. Projections are already looking good for the end of the year, too.

Many companies were proactive about hiring despite the relative uncertainty cast by Donald Trump's victory in the presidential race. The takeaway for employers: Complete hiring plans now rather than after the start of 2017. By offering competitive wages and benefits, employers contribute to the overall health of their local economies,