Private Sector Employment Rises Sharply

Roseland, NJ, Jan. 5, 2010 -- Private sector employment rose by 297,000 from November to December, according to the ADP Employment Report for December.

Nonfarm private employment grew at a rate well above what is generally associated with a declining unemployment rate, the report added.

The unemployment rate in the U.S. was 9.8% in November, heightening concerns about a sluggish job growth and job creation.

December's ADP increase is more than triple the 92,000 estimate for November.

Much of the increase was in the services sector, which grew by 270,000 in December. The rise is the largest monthly increase in the history of the report, as well as the 11th consecutive monthly gain.

Employment in the goods-producing sector and manufacturing also showed increases while construction remained unchanged in December.

Small businesses saw the most increase, hiring about 117,000 people during the month.