14% of area CIOs plan to hire in next year

Robert Half Technology commissioned an independent study of 1,400 IT executives across the nation to learn about hiring trends in the industry. Results reveal good news for Southeast Michigan, with 17% planning to hire and only 3% planning to reduce staff. This net gain of 14% is equal to the overall nationwide gain.

The West coast posted strongest numbers overall, with the Pacific Northwest poised to see a 23% net gain. While that may be unsurprising, this area leaves Rust Belt rivals like Cleveland (8% net increase) and Pittsburgh (7% net increase) in the dust. And Chicago? Sorry, Windy City, your number was just 12%.

Robert Half's local office, located in Southfield, currently has seven employees with plans to grow that number. "We are looking to expand," says Christine Lucy, the company's Michigan vice president. "We're not immune to that positive news either."

The news of growth did not surprise Lucy. "We feel we have a great knowledge base here in Southeast Michigan," she says. "This is one of the stronger regions for demand as well as talent." She cites research and development, finance and health care as strong-growth industries.

Founded in 1948, Robert Half is the world's largest specialized staffing firm, with over 100 offices across the world. The Technology Group was started in 1994.

Source: Christine Lucy, Robert Half Technology
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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