NY workers express optimism

In a sign that there may be light at the end of the recessionary tunnel, one staffing company is reporting that New Yorkers are feeling increasingly optimistic about the job market.

Residents of New York, racked by job losses in both the financial services sector and manufacturing, seem to be coming around on the prospect of finding a new job, according to a new survey from Spherion, a staffing company.

"As national reports continue to show signs that the recession may be bottoming out, New Yorkers' overall confidence appears to be rebounding," said Linda Perneau, vice president and general manager of Spherion Staffing Services.

"This month's report shows that nearly half (41 percent) of workers are confident in their ability to find a new job, increasing five percentage points from last month," she added.

This news comes just one week after the Federal Reserve Bank of New York released its Empire State Manufacturing Survey which showed that manufacturers in the state struggling to improve cash flow are still facing challenges.

The general business conditions measurement fell and the new orders index remained negative.

Manufacturers said they were spending less and reducing capital expenditure plans because of their cash flow situation.