Six in ten organisations looking to increase marketing headcount are focusing on permanent hires, according to a new survey by professional recruiter Robert Walters.
Only two per cent of companies surveyed said they were looking to downsize their marketing teams in the coming months.
Asked about their hiring plans for the second half of 2014, two-thirds agree that growth in the business or new business will have the greatest impact on hiring, up from 58 per cent at the start of the year.
Seventy per cent of these organisations are looking to recruit for junior and entry level positions.
However, 40 per cent of respondents expect to be affected by skills shortages over the coming months, with an additional 27 per cent uncertain of their impact on the business.
Tim Gilbert, director of marketing recruitment at Robert Walters, said: “Investment in permanent hires is a sign of increasing confidence and an indication that employers are building up marketing headcount to help take the business forward. As conditions improve, we anticipate more job seekers looking to take advantage of the opportunities on offer.
“With many predicting skills shortages, make sure your organisation is equipped with the expertise and knowledge to attract sought-after marketing professionals.”