SmallBusinessNewz

Manpower Inc. has released the results of its latest Manpower Employment Outlook Survey. The results show that US employers anticipate a moderate increase in their hiring plans for the first quarter of 2010.

"There is still a lot of ground to make up in the labor market, but the overall increase in hiring intentions is clearly a positive," said Manpower Inc. Chairman and CEO Jeff Joerres. "The first quarter is a seasonally slow hiring quarter. To see an increase over the fourth quarter is unusual and seems to indicate increased confidence levels from employers."

28,000 employers were surveyed, and 12% of them anticipate an increase of staff levels in the first quarter, while 12% expect a decrease in payrolls. 5% of employers indicate they are undecided about hiring intentions.

"The data points to encouraging news. A record number of employers plan to keep staff levels stable, which is good for the employed, and an overall positive Outlook means expanding opportunities for job seekers," said Jonas Prising, Manpower president of the Americas. "Employer uncertainty around hiring is shifting from whether to consider adding staff, to when - and at what rate - to make the investment."

Mining, Durable Goods Manufacturing, and Information and Government employers expect to moderately increase hiring in the quarter. Slight increases are expected among employers in Nondurable Goods manufacturing, Transportation and Utilities, Professional and Business Services, Education and Health, Leisure and Hospitality, and other services.