Ten Employment Trends for 2011

CareerBuilder recently surveyed more than 2,400 employers and 3,900 workers nationwide to identify key trends in business, hiring, work culture, and job searching.

The downturn in the economy produced fundamental shifts in how companies and workers view the market, says CareerBuilder. Here are the top ten trends to watch for this year:

• Shifting business directionForty-two percent of employers said their company changed its business direction as a result of the poor economy. The majority of these employers kept their core business but added new revenue streams. More than one-quarter (27%) of those who shifted business direction reported they changed their core business altogether or expanded into areas that will eventually become their core business.
• Working leaner– Thirty-five percent of employers reported that their current staffs are smaller than pre-recession levels. Of those employers, most anticipate no adjustments to staff levels in 2011, with 57% reporting that they have become accustomed to handling the workload with fewer employees. Others pointed to their business changing focus and hiring in other areas.
• Changing jobsWorkers are becoming more optimistic about their job prospects in the new year. Fifteen percent of full-time workers are actively seeking a new job. Seventy-six percent reported that, although they are not actively looking, they would change jobs in 2011 for the right opportunity. Workers aren’t necessarily focused on a bigger paycheck. Sixty-eight percent reported that affordable benefits are more important to them than salary.
• Creating new functions– Along with more traditional job opportunities, employers are also adding new functions within their organizations in response to popular movements. Jobs centered around social media, green energy and healthcare reform are being added in 2011. Hiring managers also reported demand for “cyber warriors” to protect Internet sites from security breaches or fraudulent activity.
• Video interviewingWith smaller recruiting staffs facing a larger number of job applications, employers are turning to technology to help identify viable candidates. Six percent reported that they have conducted video interviews with potential job candidates while 11% plan to do so in 2011.
• Less moonlightingWhile making ends meet continues to be a challenge for many U.S. households, fewer workers are reporting the need to work more than one job. Twelve percent plan to take on second jobs in 2011, compared to 19% last year.
• Taking a global perspectiveNearly one-in-five U.S. employers (18%) reported they will be hiring for their operations in other countries in 2011. Five percent stated they will likely recruit workers from other countries to work in the U.S.
• Relocating talentOf workers who were laid off in the last 12 months and found new jobs, 23% relocated to a new city or state. Looking to the New Year, 33% of employers stated they would be willing to pick up the moving tab for select candidates.
• Promoting without payForty-one percent of employers are concerned about losing their top talent as the economy improves. While the majority of employers plan to increase salaries for existing staff in 2011, 39% will not be providing raises. As a gesture of recognition to employees, 13% are offering higher titles, but without pay increases.
• Going casualEmployers are becoming more relaxed about set schedules and dress codes as they take measures to enhance the overall work experience. One-third (33 %) of employers expect to offer more flexible work arrangements such as telecommuting and alternate schedules in 2011. Fifteen percent reported they will introduce a more casual dress code.