New Year Outlook Rosy for Employees

USA

From anticipating new jobs to predicting more raises, U.S. employees have a bright outlook on the coming year, new research shows.

A study by Randstad U.S. revealed workers are hopeful for a better 2013 when it comes to jobs and the economy. Specifically, 57 percent of employees believe they are likely to receive a raise in 2013, up 10 percent from last year, while nearly 60 percent are expecting the job market to pick up.

Additionally, the research found that workers feel positive about their companies. Nearly 50 percent of those surveyed predict their employer will expand their workforce in 2013, up 6 percent from last year, with 30 percent expecting to receive a promotion, up 7 percent from a year ago.

Overall, the study shows that nearly 80 percent of workers believe their companies have a great future.

Jim Link, managing director of human resources for Randstad US, said the recent presidential election and economic issues at home and abroad caused many employees to remain skeptical around future jobs and employability in 2012.

"Today we see employees are very positive about their future prospects and are hopeful to regain any economic momentum lost," Link said. "As optimism increases, employee engagement will be increasingly important for companies' retention efforts."

The research also discovered employees are optimistic when it comes to employer benefits. Just 16 percent of the employees surveyed believe they will get a pay cut in 2013, down 8 percent from last year, while 41 percent think their company will cut back on benefits next year, down 6 percent from this year. In addition, just one-third of employees believe their company will lay people off in the new year.

Most employees indicate positive attitudes toward their current jobs overall, with 68 percent indicating their company makes an effort to keep them engaged and 77 percent being proud to work for their organization.

The research was based on surveys of 3,417 adults who are currently employed full time.

Follow Chad Brooks on Twitter @cbrooks76 or BusinessNewsDaily @BNDarticles. We're also on Facebook & Google+.