Recently Harris Interactive conducted an online survey about hiring trends by managers for the second quarter of 2008. The survey, which was conducted between February 11 and March 13, 2008, was sent to over 2,700 hiring managers and human resource professionals. Despite the U.S. Department of Labor reports showing declines in the number of payroll jobs, the survey found that 88% of hiring managers said they would either increase or have no change in their full-time staff.  In addition, the survey shows a decrease in those surveyed who planned to do any layoffs – down 4% from the first quarter.

 

Finding good talent is always a challenge for companies. This was verified by the survey, which indicated that 38% of the hiring managers said they cannot find qualified candidates for their open positions. 

 

Some companies are assisting their employees with a cost of living raise to thank them for their loyalty. They are finding that the overall modest increases are important to reward and retain employees.