US temporary staffing revenue rose a median 5% year over year in May among staffing firms taking part in Staffing Industry Analysts’ monthly Pulse Survey. The 5% growth in May is a slowdown from April’s 7% median growth pace and the fourth consecutive month with a single-digit growth pace.

The net proportion of firms reporting an increasing trend in new orders dropped for the second consecutive month to 22% in May from 28% in April, the lowest level in several years and a bearish sign.

“Though median year-over-year revenue growth figures came in low across a number of segments, the bright spot continues to be healthcare staffing, which experienced double-digit median revenue growth across three of its four sub-segments,” said Research Analyst Ziv Tepman. “In addition, the fastest growing segment on a median basis outside of healthcare was IT at a healthy 6%.”

The report found median year-over-year revenue growth decelerated in the following staffing segments in May from April:

• Industrial: to -1% from 5%
• IT: to 6% from 8%
• Per diem nursing: to 11% from 25%
• Allied healthcare: to 6% from 10%
• Finance/accounting: to 0% from 2%
• Engineering/design: to -3% from 2%
• Marketing/creative: to 1% from 5%

The report also found median year-over-year revenue growth accelerated in the following staffing segments in May from April:

• Office/clerical: to 2% from 1%
• Travel nursing: to 25% from 24%
• Locum tenens: to 33% from 9%

Pulse Survey results are based on a monthly survey of US staffing firms. Data from the month of May was submitted by individuals from 127 staffing companies.

The full Pulse Survey Report is available to firms that take part in the survey. Features include data on bill rate trends, data split by US regions, and tables with a snapshot of year-over-year and month-over-month revenue growth for the most recent month.

The July Pulse Survey is currently underway. Participate now by selecting this link.