1.  An improving job market may also encourage members of the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates later this year to keep inflation at bay, Best said.

2.  According to some recently published studies, not all fields are overstocked, and there are some early signs of an improving job market over all.

3.  Evidence of an improving job market helped stifle enthusiasm for bonds today, analysts said.

4.  Foreclosures had been climbing at a double-digit pace but a slowly improving job market is allowing people to hold on to their homes.

5.  The association said gains in consumer confidence caused by the improving job situation should counteract the effect of mortgage rate increases as high as three-quarters of a percentage point.

6.  The three sets of data show an improving job market, continued strength in the housing construction industry and steady retail sales in November.

7.  With the competition for skilled workers already fierce, an improving job market can force employers to offer better pay.