Top Of Employment Market Stabilizing

With improving corporate profits underscoring signs of increased economic growth, recruiters are forecasting an increase in hiring activity at the executive-level, according to the latest ExecuNet Recruiter Confidence Index (RCI) data released today.

According to Octoberís survey of 172 executive recruiters, 56 percent are confident or very confident the executive employment market will improve during the next six months – unchanged from last month. Those who are not confident conditions will improve during this period of time dropped from 8 percent in September to 6 percent in October, which marks the lowest not confident reading since May 2008.

ìRecent hiring activity indicates the recovery will be based on business re-investment and global economic growth,î says Mark Anderson, President and Chief Economist of ExecuNet. ìWhile we expect the executive employment market to rebound at a slower rate when compared to the recovery that occurred after the last recession in 2001, fewer companies are planning to trim leadership staffs in 2010 and many are using the opportunity to get talent on board that will help them come out of this downturn profitably.î

Recruitersí short-term confidence remained stable, as 24 percent are confident or very confident the executive employment market will improve during the next three months – down slightly from a 12-month high of 27 percent in September.

Where The Jobs Are

The industries recruiters expect will generate the greatest growth in executive-level job opportunities through the end of 2009 include:

1. Healthcare
2. Clean/Green Technology
3. Energy/Utilities
4. Pharmaceuticals/Medical Devices/ Biotech
5. Environmental Products/Services

Preparing For Better Days Ahead

The survey also revealed that recruiters see more companies beginning to position themselves for a recovery, as 46 percent say assignments are coming from organizations seeking to leverage the current economic climate by ìtrading upî with new hires for existing positions – up from 26 percent in February 2009.

ìWhile there may be more opportunities available in the months ahead, this growth will go largely unnoticed by executives who limit their search to job board advertisements,î adds Anderson. ìGiven the current supply of talent, companies are posting fewer executive-level searches on public websites and turning to their direct connections and networks for referrals.î

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.