Stronger Employment Trends Expected for 2011

January 2, 2011 – Twenty-four percent of employers plan to hire full-time, permanent employees in 2011, up from 20 percent in 2010 and 14 percent in 2009, according to CareerBuilder’s 2011 Job Forecast. Seven percent plan to decrease headcount, an improvement from nine percent in 2010 and 16 percent in 2009. Fifty-eight percent anticipate no change in their staff levels while 11 percent are unsure. Among employers who plan to increase their full-time, permanent headcount in 2011, sales is the most popular functional area they will be hiring for as they focus on expanding their customer base and market penetration. IT was up 26 percent and customer service rose 25 percent. “More than half of employers reported they are in a better financial position today than they were one year ago,” said Matt Ferguson, CEO of CareerBuilder. “2011 will usher in a healthier employment picture as business leaders grow more confident in the economy. Our survey indicates more jobs will be added in 2011 than 2010, but job creation will remain gradual. The year will be characterized by steady, measured gains across various industries.”