What Layoffs? Majority of CEOs Say They’re Looking to Hire This Year
According to a survey conducted by Greenhouse and Zogby Analytics, more than three-quarters of CEOs in the US plan to increase or maintain their headcount in 2023, despite concerns about inflation, recession, and layoffs. The survey, which included responses from 300 CEOs, found that CEOs are more likely to scale back on real estate rather than lay off workers. Daniel Chait, the CEO of Greenhouse, emphasized the value of employees and the consistent emphasis on the need for talent among leaders. The survey also revealed that CEOs expect high wages, job security, healthcare benefits, and flexible work arrangements to be top priorities for candidates negotiating new roles this year.
Jennifer Moss, a workforce strategist and author, noted that while there have been layoffs in the technology sector, other sectors like finance are actually hiring more people than ever before. Moss highlighted the impact of the pandemic on the way we work and our attitudes about work, comparing it to the post-World War 2 era and the dawn of the Information Age. She emphasized that the pandemic has fundamentally changed people and their relationship with work.
Despite concerns about the economy and layoffs, the study found that more than 8 in 10 CEOs are optimistic about the economy in the first six months of 2023, with even greater optimism for the second half of the year. The study also mentioned a surprise surge in hiring in the US, particularly in the leisure and hospitality and healthcare industries. Large employers like Chipotle, Boeing, and Moderna are also in the market for new talent.
Overall, the article highlights the positive outlook of CEOs regarding hiring and the importance of talent in the current economic climate. Jennifer Moss provides insights into the changing dynamics of work and the impact of the pandemic on individuals' attitudes towards work.