Said Messmer about that region's performance, "West south dentral firms, especially energy and manufacturing concerns, that are growing, seek controllers, assistant controllers, and senior and staff accountants. Instances of top candidates receiving multiple employment offers are becoming more common in high-demand occupations."

Broken down by industry, professional services seems most likely to hire, with additions in finance being planned by 14% of CFOs, and 5% expect cutbacks. In manufacturing, CFOs expect hiring activity that is above average. Personnel increases are expected by 8% of the interviewed executives.