Index Finds US Workers More Confident about Economy
NEW YORK -- The Randstad Employee Confidence Index rose 1.4 points in February to 53.5, suggesting that U.S. workers are a bit more upbeat about the economy and the job market. The index, which each month tracks U.S. workers' perspectives about the availability of jobs and the economy, finds that 30% of workers believe the economy is growing stronger and nearly a quarter say more jobs are available.
"Much like the Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index, our report shows optimism in the economy seems to have improved over the last month," said Jim Link, Randstad U.S. managing director. "Concerns over the impending fiscal cliff appear to have dissipated a bit. In fact, more workers believe the number of jobs available have increased -- which is a great sign that overall sentiment on economic conditions is improving.
"Despite this welcoming news, it is important to note workers may show decreased confidence over the coming months due to recent increases in gas prices and payroll taxes," he continued. "On the other hand, one thing our report has indicated consistently is that employed workers are, and have been, keeping their eyes open for other opportunities. In fact, this indicator has never fallen below 31% of those surveyed in the last eight years of conducting this research -- this should speak volumes to anyone managing talent."
Highlights of the report:
- 30% of employees believe the economy is getting stronger, up 4% from January.
- 24% of workers believe more jobs are available (compared to only 19% last month).
- Although still a majority (56%), fewer workers expressed optimism in the future health of their companies (61% reported such confidence in January).
- 37% of workers surveyed say they are likely to look for new job over the next 12 months versus 33% who said the same in January.
The Randstad U.S. Employee Confidence Index has measured workforce trends across the country since 2004.
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
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