In some industries, experts are noticing an uptick in hiring – a good sign that the economy may be turning around.  The U.S. unemployment rate is expected to decline to 9.4 percent by year’s end, according to a report released this week by The National Association for Business Economics.  Other reports show job cuts announced by U.S. employers are at their lowest level in nearly four years.

Despite the more positive headlines, for the millions of Americans seeking positions – especially senior-level professionals – the job market remains an uphill battle.  The Strategist, a quarterly journal from the Public Relations Society of America, published an article today that offered insights into what recruiters, HR directors and agency leaders are seeking in senior professionals.  Some of the top skills and factors – business acumen and successful track record – are applicable across many industries.  I was also asked to weigh in on the discussion, and I noted that senior practitioners need to not only demonstrate technical expertise but also softer skills like growing and developing talent.

You can read the article here.