Solid Six Figure Job Growth Expected In First Half Of 2008

Putting aside concerns surrounding an economic slowdown, most search firms expect demand for executive talent to increase in the first half of 2008, according to ExecuNetís Recruiter Confidence Index (RCI), a leading indicator for the top of the employment market.

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

According to Decemberís survey of 138 executive recruiters, 59% are confident or very confident the executive employment market will improve during the next six months ñ unchanged from last month.

Recruitersí short-term outlook dipped two percentage points in December, as 56% were confident or very confident the executive employment market will improve during the next three months ñ down from 58% in November. During this period of time, 83% of all executive search firms are expecting at least a 10% increase in search assignments and 59% are planning to hire additional staff to keep pace with this job growth.

ìDespite increasing economic uncertainty, the executive employment market is off to a solid start in 2008,î says Mark Anderson, President of ExecuNet. ìMany industries and functions are showing strong six figure job growth, as mid-sized, private companies continue to generate a significant number of new opportunities for proven leaders.î

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