Job Market Sentiment Evolves Amid Employer Cautiousness
A fresh perspective on hiring trends as businesses assess future growth.
This season brings an interesting shift in sentiment among U.S. employers regarding their hiring plans. Many employers are taking a closer look at their strategies and opting for a more cautious approach.
According to a survey performed by The Harris Poll for Express Employment Professionals, while a majority of hiring managers, about 78%, remain optimistic about their hiring outlook for the remainder of the year, this level of confidence has decreased from the previous fall when 84% expressed a positive view. Furthermore, the number of hiring managers with a negative outlook has significantly risen to 37%, compared to 30% recorded just a few months prior.
Shifting Strategies in the Labor Market
As the labor market faces these changes, the hiring strategies reflected show a more restrained approach. Currently, only 58% of companies are planning to expand their workforce in the latter half of the year, down from 63% at the end of 2024. About one-third of employers aim to maintain their current staff levels, while a small percentage, around 7%, anticipate staff reductions.
For the businesses that are still hiring, the reasons are predominantly clear: they are looking to manage increasing workloads (52%), create new positions (49%), and replace employees who have left (42%). On the other hand, organizations that plan to downsize highlight cost-cutting as the main reason, followed by adjustments to regulatory changes (26%) and a response to falling demand (25%).
The Types of Roles Employers are Seeking
The types of positions companies are targeting are also evolving. Full-time roles continue to be the most desired, appealing to 81% of employers, although this number has seen a decline from 86% last fall. Part-time job opportunities, on the other hand, are gaining traction with 28% of employers considering them. Hiring is also becoming more balanced, with an equal distribution between entry-level and mid-level roles (50% each), although entry-level hiring has sharply fallen from 68% earlier in 2024.
Bob Funk, Jr., CEO, President, and Chairman of Express Employment International, reflects on these trends, indicating, "These numbers tell a story of employers recalibrating. They are still hiring but are doing so with more intention, strategy, and a sharper focus on what the future holds."
Understanding the Survey Methodology
The Job Insights survey was conducted within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals. The data was gathered online from 1,000 hiring managers during the latter part of the summer.
Contact for More Detailed Survey Methodologies
For deeper insights into the survey methodologies, please reach out to the Director of Corporate Communications & PR.
Who is Bob Funk, Jr.?
Robert (Bob) Funk, Jr. is the Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chairman of Express Employment International. He has been pivotal in leading a variety of workforce solution brands, including the flagship Express Employment Professionals franchise. His company stands as an industry leader, establishing a footprint across several countries including underrepresented markets.
About Express Employment Professionals
Express Employment Professionals is dedicated to helping people succeed in their careers. They provide localized staffing solutions throughout various regions, including multiple countries. Their notable reach has facilitated employment for 427,000 individuals globally in the past year, highlighting their commitment to growth and community service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors are influencing employers to adjust hiring plans?
Employers are responding to increased workloads, the need for new roles, and high turnover rates but are also focused on tightening budgets amid economic uncertainties.
What percentage of businesses plan to expand their workforce?
Currently, only 58% of surveyed companies plan to increase their workforce, representing a decline from prior periods.
Are part-time roles becoming more popular?
Yes, there has been an uptick in interest for part-time roles, with 28% of employers considering this option.
What demographic of roles is hiring trending toward?
Hiring is currently evenly split between entry-level and mid-level positions, though entry-level hiring has noticeably dropped recently.
Who conducted the survey related to hiring trends?
The survey was conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals among 1,000 U.S. hiring decision-makers.
