Recruiters Confidence Rallies Amid Steady Six-Figure Job Growth

ExecuNetís Recruiter Confidence Index (RCI) climbed to a 10-month high in May, as the pace of hiring at the top of the employment market continues to improve the outlook for the executive search industry despite significant economic headwinds.

Introduced in May 2003, the Recruiter Confidence Index is based on a monthly survey of executive recruiters conducted by ExecuNet (www.execunet.com), the executive business, career, and recruiting network. Independent analysis of the RCI has confirmed it is a leading indicator for the executive search industry.

According to Mayís survey of 114 executive recruiters, 66% are confident or very confident the executive employment market will improve during the next six months ñ up from 61% last month. During this period of time, four-in-five (80%) executive recruiters expect at least a 10% increase in search assignments received from corporate clients.

ìDespite an avalanche of negative economic news, recruiters have not seen any signs of executive hiring freezes,î says Mark Anderson, President of ExecuNet. ìWith the vast majority of search firms expecting a double-digit increase in assignment growth during the second half of the year, the prospects for business leaders interested in making a job change or exploring the market are better than todayís headlines suggest.î

In anticipation of a seasonal slowdown during the summer months, recruitersí short-term confidence dipped in May, as 49% were confident or very confident the executive employment market will improve during the next three months ñ down from 55% in April. Despite this drop, 44% of all search firms plan to hire additional professional staff within the next three months to keep up with the growth of the executive employment market.

Founded in 1988, ExecuNet brings C-level executives together online and in face-to-face meetings to discuss business challenges, solutions and professional opportunities. A recognized authority in executive recruiting and human capital, ExecuNet also provides members access to confidential six-figure job listings, proprietary research, and pragmatic advice. For more information, visit www.execunet.com.