UK employers 'more optimistic' over jobs
13 Mar 2012
UK employers are showing greater optimism when it comes to hiring, despite signs that the rate of unemployment is rising, a new study suggests.
In a survey carried out by the recruitment firm Manpower, more employers said they were planning to recruit new employees than make redundancies.
However, the research reveals a mixed picture outside of London, with some parts of the country showing a negative outlook.
'Although it's too early to say that a full-blown recovery is upon us, it does feel like we're turning a corner when it comes to the jobs market,' said Manpower UK managing director, Mark Cahill.
'Businesses that were battening down the hatches in the last quarter appear to be considering taking on staff. We've noticed much more flexibility among employers, particularly in the market for permanent hiring.'
The recruitment firm also claims that the London Olympic Games are bolstering confidence in the city and, although many of the Olympic jobs will be temporary, they could help to boost the UK's economic recovery.
The official rate of unemployment currently stands at 2.67 million, although new data is expected to show a further increase in this figure.
