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• updated 09/07/2010 9:54AM Report: Local employers are more optimistic in Q4 Local employers are gaining optimism in their hiring plans and expect to add staffers at a moderate level in the fourth quarter, according to a new report from work-force solutions firm Manpower.
  
  The Employment Outlook Survey shows that 73 percent of those polled in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana region expect to maintain their current staffing levels in the fourth quarter, up from 71 percent in the third quarter and 66 percent at the same time in 2009.
  
  Another 11 percent plan to hire – the number is unchanged from the third quarter and down from 12 percent in the year-ago period. Eight percent expect to cut positions, down from 13 percent in the third quarter and 17 percent at the same time in 2009.
  
  The results yield a net employment outlook of 3 percent, which is up from a rating of –2 percent in the third quarter and –5 percent from the same period last year.
  
  It's the most positive figure in almost two years, said Metro Regional Director William Marzullo.
  
  "The five-point increase from the third quarter, and eight points over a year ago, is driven by a lower number of companies that anticipate decreasing staff, combined with the increase of companies that anticipate maintaining staffing levels," he said.
  
  Prospects are best in the durable-goods manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, information, professional and business services, education and health services.
  
  The government, construction, transportation and utilities, and financial activities sectors are expected to cut staffers in the period.
  
  "We are encouraging jobseekers to take advantage of training opportunities offered by companies, (agency) employers and schools," said Marzullo. "Waiting for the economy to recover, much less specific jobs to return, is a waste of time for those that need work now. Upgrading your skills to present demands is the only way to take advantage of the limited opportunities available in the job market."
  
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