Business And Jobs Outlook

The outlook for U.S. businesses for the remainder of 2015 and into 2016 is very bright, according to a recent PricewaterhouseCoopers report. Six out of seven companies surveyed for the report stated that they expected revenue growth in 2015, which is the most optimistic survey result since 2007. These companies projected an average revenue increase of 5.4% in 2015, with growth continuing into 2016. In addition, 31% reported improved gross margins as the result of price increases, cost control, low core inflation, low energy costs and relatively stagnant wages. This is the highest percentage of improved gross margins in 10 years.

However, because of the improved business landscape, companies are having increased difficulty finding the talent that they need to sustain their growth.   According to CareerBuilder, the most challenging  job categories are marketing, sales, and technology and employers report increased competition and wage pressure for these jobs. Also, as roles within organizations become more complex and data-driven, educational requirements have increased, contributing to the difficulty to fill open jobs.