Survey: Businesses Optimistic About Growth but Face Recruiting Difficulties

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Feb 13, 2014, 08:10 ET

MENLO PARK, Calif., Feb. 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- In a recent Robert Half survey, nearly all (91 percent) of executives interviewed said they are optimistic about their companies' near-term growth prospects. However, they are less certain about their ability to recruit experienced talent for open jobs. In fact, more than six in 10 (63 percent) chief financial officers (CFOs) said it is somewhat or very challenging to find skilled candidates for professional-level positions today.

The survey was developed by Robert Half, the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm, and conducted by an independent research firm. It is based on interviews with more than 2,100 CFOs from a random sample of companies in more than 20 of the largest U.S. markets.

CFOs were asked, "How confident are you in your company's prospects for growth in the first quarter?" Their responses:

Very confident	46%
Somewhat confident	45%
Not at all confident	8%
Don't know/no answer	2%
Total	101%*

*Responses do not total 100 percent due to rounding.

CFOs were also asked, "In general, how challenging is it for your company to find skilled candidates for professional-level positions today?" Their responses:

Very challenging	16%
Somewhat challenging	47%
Not challenging	29%
Don't know/no answer	7%
Total	99%*

*Responses do not total 100 percent due to rounding.

"A company's success often is directly tied to its ability to attract and retain talented employees," said Paul McDonald, Robert Half senior executive director. "The businesses best positioned for success are those with well-established hiring processes, including seeking referrals from internal staff, leveraging external networks for leads, and partnering with a specialized recruiting firm."

McDonald noted retention has become a greater focus for businesses because skilled workers are harder to replace. "We see more companies benchmarking salaries to ensure pay remains competitive and offering attractive perks, like telecommuting or retirement packages."

Note: For insights on employee compensation, including starting salary projections for 2014, check out the 2014 Salary Guides from Robert Half.

About Robert Half

Founded in 1948, Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm. The Menlo Park, Calif.-based company has staffing locations worldwide and offers online job search services on its divisional websites, all of which can be accessed at roberthalf.com. For career and management advice, follow our blog at blog.roberthalf.com.

SOURCE Robert Half