Workers pessimistic on economic future

“The findings from this year’s Labor Day Survey are a clear indication that the recession has left gaping wounds in the mindset of today’s workers,” said Loretta Penn, president of Spherion Staffing Services, in prepared remarks. “This study is a vivid reminder to U.S. employers that workers have paid a hefty price during the recession and old wounds take a long time to heal. We may see an enduring toll on workers’ optimism, outlook, and overall satisfaction for many years to come.” 

The recession has also overwhelmed workers, the survey found. 

More than half (53 percent) had to assume additional responsibilities because of co-workers being laid off. Almost all of them (93 percent) did not receive additional compensation. The findings suggest employees are confronting a workload that is unsustainable over the long-term. 

“These findings underscore some sizable improvements that need to be made,” Penn said. “Business leaders must be laser-focused on ways to ease unsustainable workloads, offer better work/life balance, and institute measures to address the 95 percent of workers who are just waiting to walk out the door.” 

The survey tapped the opinions of nearly 900 working adults between July 15 and 28.

Spherion Staffing Services is a recruiting and staffer provider that specializing in placing administrative, clerical, customer service and light industrial candidates into temporary or full-time positions.