International recruitment and consultancy firm Michael Page has published its latest figures on grow demand growth, finding that business confidence is bolstering employment growth.

 

The company found the following

 

  • 47% of employers will increase staff numbers in the first quarter
  • Most hiring at mid-level across front office and operational areas
  • 94% of companies expect business conditions to remain stable or improve

 

“Our clients have started the year positively and this is leading to an increase in the number of job opportunities on offer, particularly in sectors like mining and resources. The challenge will be in attracting and retaining top talent in a professional labour market where the demand for skills outweighs supply,” said Phillip Guest, Managing Director of Michael Page, Australia & New Zealand.

 

Business confidence levels are improving, with 48% of survey respondents anticipating trading conditions will strengthen during the first quarter.

 

“Over recent years the Australian labour market has proved resilient by global standards and skills shortages are intensifying. Professionals are confident about changing jobs in a positive market and employers will need to work hard to retain their best performers in 2011,” said Mr Guest.