One thing that has not been good for workers over the last year is the fact that companies are not hiring like they used to. This has meant that many people are not receiving the money they are worth. Several businesses have been able to downgrade the pay that people would expect to receive for the jobs they do.
The only hope for many of these people is that the job market will improve and good workers will soon be back in demand. This will mean higher wages for the workers with special skills. I hope this comes true very soon!