The economy continues to grow, creating new jobs even as companies produce more with fewer workers.  Non-farm payrolls increased by 108,000 in December and the unemployment rate dropped form 5.0% to 4.9%.  While the December growth in jobs was about 100,000 less than expected by economists, the number of jobs created in November was increased by the same amount, as reported by the government.  Manufacturing payrolls increased by 18,000 for the month.  Following sufficient economic growth, the continued high productivity rate no longer stifles hiring.  In other words, despite increased output from workers, companies are still forced to hire new ones to keep pace with demand.