ExecuNet’s Recruiter Confidence Index (RCI) increased in December as the outlook for the executive employment market and the executive search industry continued to brighten amid signs the economy is rebounding. Executive search firms now expect a 19 percent increase in assignments received from corporate clients – the highest since early 2008 – and are adding staff to prepare for this growth.
According to December’s survey of 153 executive recruiters, 54 percent are confident or very confident the executive employment market will improve during the next six months – up from 50 percent last month. In addition to forecasting a double-digit increase in assignment growth in the year ahead, 21 percent of all search firms are planning to add professional staff in the first quarter of 2010.
“This bodes well for job seekers and those executives who may have deferred searching in the last 12 to 18 months,” says Mark Anderson, President and Chief Economist of ExecuNet. “The increase in search activity shows companies have started to expand staffs after a long period of cutbacks.”
Where The Jobs Are
Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2010, the industries recruiters expect will generate the greatest growth in executive demand includ
- 1. Healthcare
- 2. Clean/Green Tech
- 3. Life Sciences
- 4. High Tech
- 5. Energy/Utilities
The top five functions expected to be in greatest demand during the first three months of 2010 are:
- 1. Business Development
- 2. Sales
- 3. Engineering
- 4. Operations Management
- 5. General Management
Introduced in May 2003, the Recruiter Confidence Index is based on a monthly survey of executive search firms conducted by ExecuNet (www.execunet.com), a private network for business leaders. A leading indicator for the economy and the executive job market, a reading above 50 percent indicates recruiters expect the number of search assignments in the next six months will increase.
Founded in 1988, ExecuNet is a private network for business leaders who believe that the right connections can produce extraordinary results in their careers and organizations. A recognized authority in executive recruiting and human capital, ExecuNet provides members access to confidential six-figure job opportunities, proprietary research, and pragmatic advice. For more information, visit www.execunet.com.