Despite continuing uncertainty in the global economy, the Antal Global survey of over 17,000 organisations in 56 countries has found job markets for professionals and managers holding up relatively well.

Current hiring levels across the globe were down marginally with 55% of respondents recruiting at professional and managerial level in comparison to 56% in the last survey in July. 54% of organisations questioned also intended to hire in the coming quarter. The rate of those expecting to make staff redundant was up slightly from 18% in December to 20% now and this was expected to remain the same over the next three months.

Speaking about the results, Antal said: “It will perhaps come as little surprise to hear that the overall global figure masks substantial variance in the fortunes of individual countries. Several of the Eurozone countries are still languishing in the doldrums. In Spain, for example, less than a third of businesses are recruiting, although, much against expectations, in Greece over 40% of companies are hiring at professional level (although even more seem to be in the process of getting rid of people). And the most significant activity is still taking place in the fast growing economies of the developing world. In China, for example, more than 70% of businesses are currently seeking new staff, while in the Philippines the figure is in excess of 90%”.

In the UK, 45% of respondents expect to hire at the managerial /professional level over the coming quarter compared to France (39%), Germany (22%) and the Netherlands (50%). The figure for the USA is 49%. 

Sector-by-sector, luxury goods is the most confident sector at 77%, followed by fashion (72%) and account and shared services (70%). FMCG (42%) and agriculture (23%) have the lowest scores.

To read the full report click below or look at the attached graphics.