Growth in temporary staffing revenue decelerated in August, according to the latest Pulse Survey by Staffing Industry Analysts released last week. Year-over-year revenue growth in temporary staffing slowed to a median 7% in August from 9% in the previous Pulse Survey covering the month for June.

However, there were areas of acceleration. In temporary staffing, healthcare led the way in median year-over-year revenue growth in August with the top three segments being travel nurse staffing at 20%, allied healthcare at 10% and locum tenens at 9%.

Industrial staffing fell to a median 2% on a year-over-year basis in August. Revenue was flat in other segments including office/clerical, per diem nursing and legal staffing.

IT staffing posted year-over-year median revenue growth of 8%.

In addition, the survey asked about bill rates, and a net 41% of temporary staffing firms reported a net increasing trend in bill rates in August over the preceding three months. Meanwhile, a net 47% expect an increasing trend over the next six months.

The September Pulse Survey is based on responses from 123 staffing firms.

SIA’s Pulse Survey takes place bimonthly, and only participants receive the full report. For more information on taking the Pulse Survey, click here.