The Manpower Employment Outlook Survey indicated further growth in U.S. jobs. The 2Q05 index of hiring intentions held at 21 and was nearly double the index's level two years ago. The index indicates that a net 21% of 16,000 employers expect to increase hiring activity.

Since 1980 there has been a 74% correlation between the Manpower index and the y/y change in non-farm payrolls.

Not seasonally adjusted, 30% of employers planned to raise employment in 2Q04, the highest since late 2000, while only 7% planned to decrease employment.

Improvement in hiring intentions versus last year was widespread across industries but notable in finance/insurance/real estate, education and public administration. Moderate improvement continued in manufacturing industries but the gains contrast with net job loss three years ago.

The latest press release from Manpower Inc. covering global employment prospects can be viewed here.