From the Herman Trend Alert (emphasis mine):
In December, companies with fewer than 300 employees experienced employment growth of 1.54 percent, representing the largest percentage increase since June 2010.
1.54 percent? That is encouraging? I know, I realize there has been little to no growth, but 1.54 percent is almost as miniscule as it can be. This is the largest growth in 18 months. To say it is a difficult employment market would be a monumental understatement.