The Randstad employee confidence index rose 1.1 points in July to a reading of 52.2 after declining for three straight months. These consecutive dips follow a four-year high reading of 55.5 in March. The index measures workers’ confidence in their personal employment situation and optimism in the economic environment.

“Similarly to the U.S. Consumer Confidence Index rising for the first time in months, our index also ticked up a bit,” said Joanie Ruge, senior vice president and chief employment analyst for Randstad Holding. “Our own report suggests that workers believe in their abilities to not only find a new job if they had to, but nearly 40 percent are likely to do so. While many employers remain cautious about making full-time hires, temporary or contract hiring, is continuing to be of interest.”

The index is based on an online survey conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Randstad. It surveyed 1,248 employed U.S. adults. The survey took place between July 11 and 13.