A Tale of Two Job Markets

Hiring managers in fields including accounting firms and technology are having a tough time finding qualified job candidates due in part to employees who fear switching jobs in an uncertain economy, according to a report issued by Robert Half International and CareerBuilder.com.

Among the findings in The 2008 Employment Dynamics and Growth Expectations Report:

The primary recruiting challenge remains a shortage of qualified professionals, according to 59% of hiring managers.

Nearly one in five hiring managers said the impact of higher gas prices and commuting costs is greatly affecting their ability to attract skilled employees.

Recruiting a new full-time employee takes anywhere from four to 14 weeks, on average, depending on the position.

Hiring managers estimate that 43% of the resumes they receive come from unqualified candidates.

Source: Robert Half International, www.rhi.com.