Employments

Employment refers to the state of having paid work. In the employer-employee relationship, an individual performs defined duties in exchange for compensation, usually under a contract or labor law. It contrasts with self-employment and informal work, where protections or formal contracts may be lacking.

Typical forms include full-time, part-time, temporary, seasonal, and fixed-term contracts. Full-time workers often receive benefits; part-timers work fewer hours; temporary or contract roles are restricted by duration. Some jurisdictions distinguish employees from independent contractors, affecting rights and duties.

Legal frameworks establish minimum standards for wages, working hours, safety, anti-discrimination, and leave entitlements. They may also provide social protections such as unemployment insurance and pension schemes. Employment terms are commonly documented in a contract or offer letter, outlining duties, compensation, benefits, probation, and termination conditions. Employers are responsible for payroll, tax withholding, and compliance with labor regulations.

Recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and, when necessary, dispute resolution and termination are core elements of employment relations. Some sectors impose professional or regulatory requirements. The rise of remote and flexible work has expanded where and how work is performed, influencing scheduling, collaboration, and access to benefits.

Global labor markets are shaped by economic cycles, technology, migration, and policy. Trends such as the gig economy, automation, and freelancing raise questions about job security and rights. National statistics offices and international organizations publish employment data to track these changes.