Job Seekers Show High Confidence in Finding Quality Employment in 2026

Introduction

In an optimistic sign for the job market, a recent survey by iHire reveals that half of the U.S. job seekers are very confident about finding quality employment by 2026. This confidence emerges despite concerns around the labor market, marking a significant sentiment shift among candidates.

Survey Insights

A total of 1,400 candidates participated in the survey, where 50% expressed they are "very confident" in their job search for the upcoming year. In stark contrast, only 9% reported they feel "very unconfident." Additionally, a notable 53% of respondents anticipate salary increases in their industries, showcasing a wave of optimism that contradicts the fading job market signals.

Detailed Breakdown

The survey results provide a comprehensive look into job seekers' perspectives:

- Confidence Levels:

- Very confident: 50%
- Somewhat confident: 15%
- Neutral: 16%
- Somewhat unconfident: 10%
- Very unconfident: 9%

- Salary Expectations:

- Expect an increase: 53%
- Expect salaries to remain the same: 30%
- Expect a decrease: 7%
- Unsure: 10%

These statistics highlight a majority belief in positive job growth despite the challenges posed by today's economic climate.

Leadership Perspectives

Steve Flook, President and CEO of iHire, remarked on the encouraging nature of the findings: "It's reassuring to see that job seekers are optimistic in the wake of so much uncertainty around the labor market. Employers aiming to attract this pool of eager candidates must prioritize enhancing their job advertisements to effectively convey career growth opportunities and compensation transparency."

Research Methodology

The survey was conducted among active job seekers using the iHire platform in December 2025 and January 2026. Out of the 1,439 individuals surveyed regarding salary expectations, 1,357 answered questions about their job-seeking confidence levels. Responses highlight the intent of candidates seeking quality employment amidst perceived market constraints.

Conclusion

The robust confidence among job seekers suggests a hopeful trend as we head into 2026. Employers who adapt to this positive sentiment and invest in clearly communicating the benefits of their roles could significantly enhance their talent acquisition strategies. As the job market continues to evolve, the indicators from this survey could pave the way for a rejuvenated employment landscape.

About iHire

Established over 20 years ago, iHire is a premier employment platform that facilitates connections between job seekers and employers across 57 specialized industry networks. It combines job matching technology with recruitment expertise to streamline the hiring process and improve job seekers' experiences. More information can be found at www.iHire.com.