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Clerical worker confidence index highest since 2007

November 19, 2013

Office and administrative worker confidence rose in the third quarter, according to Randstad US’ office and administration confidence index. The index reading rose 1.6 points to a reading of 55.9 in the third quarter of 2013, its highest level since 2007.

“Over the last few years, many accounting departments consolidated positions, leaving managers to handle the responsibilities typically covered by accounts payable and accounts receivable clerks,” said Phyllis Finley, executive vice president at Randstad US. “However, we are seeing increasing demand from our clients wanting to add support roles back into the equation.”

Randstad has also seen an increase in the need for part-time accounting support and part-time medical administration personnel because of new reporting requirements, and the upcoming implementation of the Affordable Care Act, Finley said.

The percentage of administrative and clerical workers who are confident in their ability to find a new job edged up to 40 percent from 39 percent in the second quarter.

Thirty-four percent of office and administrative workers believe the economy is improving, up five percentage points from the second quarter, and the percentage of respondents who expressed confidence in the future health of their current employers rose three percentage points to 65 percent.

The index is based on an online survey of 362 U.S. office and administrative workers conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Randstad in July, August and September of 2013.