Spherion survey: Workers show more confidence in Florida's economy

FORT LAUDERDALE — Confidence among Florida workers rebounded somewhat in April after falling for the previous six months.

Spherion Corp.’s Florida Employee Confidence Index increased 0.4 points to 44.6 in April, as more workers believe the economy and jobs market have stabilized.

More workers also indicated that they are more likely to look for new jobs.

— A third of Florida workers said they believe that the economy is
staying the same, an increase of 14 percentage points from  March.

— Nearly 40 percent believe the same amount of jobs is available, also showing a 14-point increase from March.

— More workers report they are likely to look for a new job in the next year, with 36 percent indicating a desire to do so, an increase of 6 points from the previous month.

"This month's report is encouraging," said Paula Franco, branch manager for Spherion Staffing Services in Florida. "More Florida workers are now feeling that the economy and job market have stabilized. Despite the increased doubt reported in workers personal employment situation, more indicate that they are likely to look for a new job in the next year as well.”

Franco said that with many industries tied to the housing slump, many displaced workers continue to look for work.

“We are advising these individuals to take inventory of their skills and be open to transferring them to other industries," Franco said.