Manpower survey shows slower 1st quarter in '99

Springfield area employers are divided over their hiring plans for the beginning of 1999, according to the most recent Manpower Inc. survey of businesses' work force requirements for the first quarter of 1999.

"The Springfield Employment Outlook Survey for January, February and March shows that of employers contacted about their staffing needs this winter, 16 percent will add to their payrolls, 13 percent are preparing for personnel cutbacks and 61 percent plan to make no adjustments. The balance, 10 percent, are unsure of their plans," said Manpower's Lory Hobbs, in a news release.

"A year ago at this time, the outlook was a little better, as 23 percent said they would hire and 16 percent anticipated reductions. The job picture was also more positive last quarter, when 26 percent intended to increase staff while 16 percent though fewer workers were needed," Hobbs added.

The best employment prospects this winter are in transportation/public utilities and services, the survey stated. Staff cutbacks are predicted in construction and finance/insurance/real estate. Wholesale/retail trade showed mixed readings.

Seasonal hiring patterns dominated the survey on a national basis, with 23 percent adding new employees, 10 percent planning reductions, 63 percent expecting no change and 4 percent uncertain.

Manpower Inc. conducts the Employment Outlook Survey on a quarterly basis. The survey is based on telephone interviews with 16,000 public and private employers in 473 U.S. cities.

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