New figures show that the service sector of the economy continued to grow strongly in July, helped by higher levels of new business.
The NCB Purchasing Managers' Services Index recorded 56.2, down from 56.9 in June, but still well above the 50 mark which represents no change.
NCB economist Eunan King said new export growth expanded strongly, but employment growth was slower. He said firms cited gains in efficiency and outsourcing as factors in the easing of jobs growth.
The employment index of 54.2 was the lowest for over two years. The costs index was unchanged at 63.3, with firms blaming staff salaries and fuel costs. The index for prices charged moved up to 52.5.
Business confidence remained high at 69, but this was a ten-month low. Interest rates were cited as a factor.
Meanwhile, Euro zone services growth unexpectedly held at its strongest pace in a year in July with robust hiring and new business, according to a survey that made a September interest rate hike even more certain.
While the report highlighted the contrast in performance between the slowing manufacturing sector and the far bigger services component of the economy, analysts said it pointed to above-trend growth and highlighted inflation risks.
The RBS/NTC Eurozone Services Purchasing Managers Index held firm at 58.3 last month, matching June's 12-month peak.
Both Germany and France saw slightly slower expansion, but the series was buoyed by faster activity in Italy and Spain.
