Employers 'cautiously optimistic' about hiring for Q4: ManpowerGroup

Hiring intentions slightly improved for the fourth quarter as the global Net Employment Outlook (NEO) went up to 25%, according to the latest data from ManpowerGroup.

This is a three per cent increase from the previous quarter, but a five per cent decline when compared to the same time last year.

"While the gradual quarter-over-quarter improvement shows employers are cautiously optimistic about hiring, the drop from a year ago suggests employers remain prudent in the midst of uncertainty," said Jonas Prising, ManpowerGroup chairman and CEO, in a statement.

In its survey among over 40,000 employers from 42 countries, ManpowerGroup found that 41% are expecting an increase in hiring for the fourth quarter.

Another 16% are anticipating a decrease, 39% are not expecting [any change], while four per cent said they are unsure.

_{Source: ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey - Global Findings}

Hiring plans across industries, location

Meanwhile, the Information and Technology industry remained the industry with the highest NEO of 35% for the eighth consecutive quarter.

The Financials and Real Estate came in second with 32%, followed by a three-way tie among Healthcare and Life Sciences, Industrials and Materials, as well as Transport, Logistics, and Automotive, which all registered a 25% NEO.

"Outlook in the IT sector is driving demand for tech talent, especially with AI top of mind for businesses across every industry. Now is the time to prioritise retaining and attracting workers with specialised, flexible skills, and an adaptable mindset to adjust to the evolving requirements," Prising said.

_{Source: ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey - Global Findings}

By location, the strongest hiring intention was logged in India with a 37% NEO, followed by Costa Rica with a 36% NEO.

Argentina registered the lowest hiring intention for the fourth quarter with four per cent, according to the report.

_{Source: ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey - Global Findings}