It is best to investigate all sectors of the industry. Although an industry may be stable and is not expected to grow, it does not mean that there are no opportunities for employment. All industries have turnover opportunities. Individuals change or leave their jobs permanently for varying reasons. High turnover, especially in industries that require lower-skill levels, would mean that there are frequent openings even though there is little or no growth.
Industries have varying levels of growth.
Not all industry sectors, such as in retail trade or in services industries, grow at the same rate, nor are all sectors located in every county. An individual interested in working in a particular industry may have limited opportunities in a small rural county, for example. Geographical differences also account for differing employment opportunities. If an individual is considering relocating from one area of the state to another, the size of the industry and its expected growth level needs to be kept in mind. Small rural counties will not have the same employment possibilities as do the larger metropolitan areas.