The NFIB said the net change in employment per firm over the past three months remained negative but improved to -0.04 in July, from -0.11 in June.

WSJ: NFIB: U.S. July Small-Business Optimism Index Drops

The trade group said its monthly economic survey of small employers, which will be released Feb. 14, found the net change in employment per firm (seasonally adjusted) in January was zero.

FORBES: Business Hiring Optimism Improves