1. Make a unique URL. When creating a profile, you can customize your URL for your specific site. Using your first and last name can elevate your profile to the top of Google search lists.

2. Include keywords in career summary. This summary should be between 100 and 300 words long, and users should be sure to include keywords that will attract recruiters.

3. Scout the competition. Use the advanced search tool in the top right corner of the screen and enter your job title and location. This can help you size up potential competition when it comes to open positions in your field.

Ensuring that you are properly taking advantage of the various options LinkedIn provides is crucial, as a recent CareerBuilder survey found 37 percent of companies are now using social media to research and screen potential applicants.

1. Are you equipped to do the job? The most basic inquiry, this is generally determined during a first interview. The hiring manager wants to see that your skill set matches the job description to ensure you are fully capable of completing the day-to-day tasks.

2. Can you do the job here? Fitting into the office environment and company culture are becoming increasingly critical to a candidate’s ability to succeed. Many executives prioritize a sense of humor among employees and startups in particular look for a certain kind of self-motivated individual.

3. Will you be able to do the job now? Timing is everything when it comes to hiring a new employee, so companies want to make sure your career path is well-aligned with the position you are being offered.

These three inquiries demonstrate the true importance of an interview. Being fully prepared and having a working knowledge of the company can give you a leg up on other applicants from the get-go.

Small employers in the Phoenix metro area experienced a 0.3 percent hiring increase between March and April, with year-over-year hiring rising 0.9 percent, the Phoenix Business Journal reports. Paychecks for individuals employed by small businesses in Phoenix remained flat in March, the Journal noted.

Small businesses are an integral component of the Phoenix economy, and the significant number of jobs added by these firms contributed to the lowering of the metro area’s unemployment rate to 8.6 percent in March.

Industries such as healthcare, leisure and hospitality, and technology have led the way for the state’s economic recovery, as a total of 18,900 new positions were added in March, according to the Arizona Department of Economic Security.

SurePayroll’s data includes information from more than 35,000 small business clients throughout the country. A total of 40 percent said they are having a tough time finding qualified workers for sales, technology, marketing, customer service and administrative roles.

The survey, which was conducted between February 9 and March 2 and included responses from more than 2,000 hiring managers from companies in various industries, found 54 percent said they expected to bring on new graduates. That reflects a sharp improvement over the 43 percent reported in just three years ago.

“This is the first time since the recession that we’re seeing a majority of employers planning to add recent college graduates to their employee roster,” Brent Rasmussen, president of CareerBuilder North America, said in a release. “Companies across industries are placing a strong emphasis on recruiting fresh talent for technology-related roles and positions designed to drive revenue – and they’re willing to pay more for high-skill, educated labor.”

College majors that employers said were in highest demand included business, computer and information sciences, and engineering.

The CareerBuilder study follows recent research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, which found companies plan to add 10.2 percent more new graduates this year than they did last year.

The study, which followed recently unemployed professionals for five months, or at least until they landed a job, also found that the individuals who developed routines tended to put the most effort into their search, which ultimately paid off, HealthDay reports.

“It’s very, very tough,” study co-author Ruth Kanfer, a professor of psychology at Georgia Tech, said of the employment search. “It’s not like learning a skill, where maintaining a positive attitude can be easier as you see improvement with your effort. You submit resumes, but get almost no feedback on how you’re doing or what you could do to improve your chances of finding a job.”

The research, published in the April issue of the Academy of Management Journal, differentiated between the “approach” attitude and that of “avoiders,” noting that after receiving bad news, it is critical to move forward and possibly even start a support group.

In addition to staying positive, it is crucial to tailor your resume and application to the specific position, rather than simply sending the same document to a large group of prospective employers.

The number of Phoenix jobs in the technology sector is ready to spike following the commitment of one Silicon Valley company to come to the city as well as the announcement of expansion plans by a local firm.

Barry Broome, the president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, told the Arizona Republic that an anonymous Silicon Valley-based information technology company plans to build a 60,000-square-foot facility in the East Valley. The other corporation, which Broome also did not name, expects to invest in a "major expansion" of its Phoenix operations.

Broome, who referred to the two as "digital platform companies," said the number of new positions expected to be created are "pretty strong jobs" with annual salaries of between $60,000 and $70,000.

John Chan, community and economic development director for the city of Phoenix, told the news source a recent trip to northern California by city officials was crucial to get the ball rolling.

"This trip really stresses how important it is to reach out to existing businesses and develop those relationships," Chan explained.

Arizona Department of Administration figures indicate the professional, scientific and technical services industries added hundreds of jobs last year, according to the Phoenix Business Journal.

LinkedIn, which recently surpassed more than 150 million members, unveiled its new Talent Pipeline designed to help recruiters keep up with the latest staffing trends and consolidate prospective candidates into one place.

Talent Pipeline, which will be included for free under LinkedIn's Recruiter product, helps hiring managers keep up with the immediacy of hiring needs, according to a release from the social media site. The program allows these individuals to expand their search to passive candidates, who may not be actively seeking employment.

"With the rise in sources of passive talent, recruiters need a simple and intelligent way to grow, track, and stay in touch with their talent pipeline," Parker Barrile, head of products for LinkedIn Hiring Solutions, said in the release. "We're dedicated to building best-in-class products to help recruiters connect talent with opportunity worldwide, and Talent Pipeline is the next step."

The new tool will prove useful to hiring managers at companies of all industries and sizes, as a recent CareerBuilder survey found 37 percent of human resources professionals utilize social networks to research prospective employees.

A significant portion of the Phoenix jobs and positions created throughout Arizona in 2011 came from the state's biggest employers, according to a new analysis conducted by the Arizona Republic.

Nearly 60 percent of the state's largest employers brought on new workers in 2011, representing a significant shift from 2009, when 60 percent reported job losses, the news source said.

Companies that reported the strongest job growth in Arizona last year included Intel, which added 1,300 employees, JPMorgan Chase, which created 1,100 positions and Phoenix Children's Hospital, which added 584 jobs.

This trend is likely to continue this year, as Goodwill Industries, Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, O'Reilly Automotive and a number of other large companies have announced plans to hire hundreds of workers across the country, including many in Arizona.

Over the past year, the five sectors that have experienced the best employment growth in the state are healthcare, restaurants and bars, construction specialty trades, retail and public schools, according to the news source.

Such growth fueled Arizona's March employment numbers in years, as the state added 18,900 positions and saw its unemployment rate fall to 8.6 percent, according to the Department of Administration.

An increase of 18,900 jobs in Phoenix and across Arizona dropped the state's unemployment rate from 8.7 percent to 8.6 percent in March, the latest indication that the local economy is recovering.

The Arizona Department of Administration reported many of the new positions were created as a result of Major League Baseball's spring training, as well as the construction of new malls and Intel's facility in Chandler.

Lee McPheters, an economist with the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, told the Arizona Republic that March saw the largest monthly job growth so far this year.

"If the state economy continues to perform this way going forward, we could be on track to add twice as many jobs this year as last year, when employment was up by 23,500 for the year as a whole," McPheters said.

Arizona is outpacing the rest of the country in a number of sectors, including healthcare, tourism, and leisure and hospitality, according to the Department of Administration.

Construction employment also proved strong in March, adding 3,800 positions – or more than twice March's 10-year average – the Phoenix Business Journal reported. 

With hiring trends showing more employees are receiving interviews, it is important to pinpoint a few questions you can ask the hiring manager that will prove your merit. The following are some key inquiries you can make to gain valuable information, according to U.S. News & World Report.

1. What are the major challenges the person will face in this position?

2. How will the person's success in the role be evaluated?

3. What would a typical day be like for the individual holding this job?

4. What made a previous employee succeed in the position?

5. Are there any reservations you have about how I fit in the role?

This final question is particularly important because it gives you one final opportunity to ease any concerns the hiring manager may have. The interviewer's response can also show you what to improve upon and which skills should be further developed.

During the interview, you can also ask why the specific position is open, according to MoneyWatch. If the job already existed, determining why the previous worker left may offer insight into some of the potential challenges of the role.

A new compilation of staffing trends from CareerBuilder suggests 37 percent of companies are now using social media to research and screen potential candidates.

The nationwide survey, conducted between February 9 and March 2, included the responses of more than 2,000 human resources professionals and hiring managers at companies of various sizes and industries.

Of the employers who said they did not research prospective employees via social media, 15 percent said it was against their firm’s policies, CareerBuilder noted. Another 11 percent said that while they are not currently engaged in social media screening, they plan to do so.

“Because social media is a dominant form of communication today, you can certainly learn a lot about a person by viewing their public, online personas,” Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources at CareerBuilder, said in a release. “However, hiring managers and human resources departments have to make a careful, determined decision as to whether information found online is relevant to the candidates’ qualifications for the job.”

With so many companies utilizing social media to scan through the profiles of prospective workers, professionals should be sure to update their information as often as possible and actively participate in industry-related discussions.

With employment trends continuing to suggest an uncertain economic climate, 55 percent of the global professional workforce is considering changing careers, according to a new poll conducted by Monster.

The survey, which included more than 4,600 responses from professionals around the world, found that another 30 percent would consider such a move if they could find a better career. One of the most interesting findings was that responses were consistent among workers in Europe, North America and Asia.

From country to country, however, differences were seen. Only 9 percent of employees in the U.K. said their career was not impacted by the uncertain economy, compared to 15 percent of French workers.

"There are many types of career changes, with some people making a career ‘side-step,’ moving into a new kind of role within their current industry, while others may be making a more radical change," Charles Purdy, Monster.com’s career expert, said in a release. "Before considering a change, workers need to do thorough research, making sure they have realistic expectations and a concrete plan for filling their skills gaps."

One of the major things to consider when making a career change is that accepting a lower salary at first can be necessary, though opportunities to advance will exist.

Hiring trends indicate startup businesses are tasked with finding a small handful of employees who have the skills to do the job and can fit into the corporate culture. In a recent Forbes article, the CEO of mobile application GateGuru, Dan Gellert, shares some tips for recruiting success at a small company.

1. Take advantage of your personal network. Though job boards can attract a significant number of candidates, Gellert says a well-developed personal network often has higher rewards. Even if recommended individuals are not available, they will likely know others who would be.

2. Recruit, recruit, recruit. Recruiting should not be looked at as a one-time thing, but rather a process to be developed over a long period of time. Having a network of people who could fill positions when they open up is key.

3. Jump at the chance when you find the perfect candidate. "When you find someone you love, act quickly," Gellert tells Forbes. "One of the sells of a startup is quick decision making – show that to the recruit."

When hiring workers for startups, gauging candidates' self-motivation and ability to perform tasks with little supervision is also key, as they are likely to be thrown immediately into the fire. 

Revenue for temp agencies and other staffing firms rose 14 percent to $117.2 billion last year, according to the latest estimate from Staffing Industry Analysts.

Revenue for only temporary staffing also climbed 14 percent as demand for these workers increases and more companies begin to rely on staffing organizations.

Timothy Landhuis, a research associate at Staffing Industry Analysts and the author of the latest forecast, noted that the uptick in staffing demand is likely to continue moving forward.

"We project that U.S. staffing industry revenue will expand by 10 percent in 2012," Landhuis explained, "with the following industry segments reaching all-time high levels: industrial staffing, information technology staffing, locum tenens staffing, engineering staffing and PEO."

Though the U.S. temporary workforce lost 7,500 positions in March, February's hiring increase was revised upward by approximately 10,000 jobs to 55,000, Reuters reports. Joanie Ruge, an analyst with one staffing firm, told the media outlet that many of the temporary positions are being created in the professional sectors and are leading to permanent opportunities.

A recent survey of employment trends from research firm Forrester found that more than 34 million Americans work from home, at least on an occasional basis. Though telecommuting may be seen by many as a major perk, the following questions can help you decide if it is right for you, according to Mashable.

1. Am I disciplined enough? The ability to put aside potential distractions and focus completely on your work the most critical factor in determining whether you can effectively work out of the home.

2. Do I have sufficient space? Designating one room for only work-related activities is crucial. This offers a place to “go,” and allows you to mentally separate work from your personal life.

3. Am I motivated? Self-motivated individuals tend to be more successful at working remotely. A lack of supervision can make it easier to get off track during the day.

Though it may seem that some industries lend themselves more naturally to telecommuting, a recent survey from the Telework Exchange found approximately one-fifth of federal employees work remotely, while another fifth are “part-time mobile workers.”

The introduction of Facebook's BranchOut application has helped ease the job search burden for many individuals, particularly with current hiring trends showing more employers turning to social media to recruit.

A recent article in The Daily Campus, Southern Methodist University's campus newspaper, notes that soon-to-be college graduates have begun to lean heavily on the latest networking tool from Facebook.

BranchOut, which claims a person with 300 Facebook friends can potentially be exposed to 30,000 professional connections, has also been released as a mobile application.

"I can view the past and present jobs of my 'connections' as well as look up job postings by many companies/organizations," Duncan Spielberger, a sophomore at the university, told the news source. "I would recommend it for any college student who is in the early stages of creating an online career account and wants to utilize the Internet to share their resume."

BranchOut was recently listed as one of the fastest growing Facebook applications by daily active users, according to a post on Inside Facebook. 

The Scottsdale employment picture appears to be brightening as a result of the recently renewed strength of the restaurant industry, MyFox Phoenix reports.

Though the effects of the economic downturn are still lingering in the city and across Arizona, the restaurant business is poised to grow this year, with an estimated 12 percent of people expected to spend more to go out to eat.

Evidence of this trend can be seen in the fact that three restaurants in Old Town Scottsdale told the news source that they were too busy to even give an interview.

"This March was the busiest we have seen in four years," Brian Raab, owner of The Mission in Scottsdale, told the media outlet. "We have watched our numbers quadruple since first year we were open. Before 2008, 2009, no one knew if they would have a job, we weren't sure if we would be open. We were all scared people."

The success of the restaurant industry comes as Scottsdale's unemployment rate sits at 6.2 percent, according to the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Current employment trends suggest young professionals are more likely to seek new opportunities after only a few years in a specific position. A recent Business Insider column shed light on some common mistakes that should be considered before making a career move.

1. Don't just chase the money. Though compensation is obviously a major factor in changing jobs, opportunities for advancement and successful business models should also be considered.

2. Do the research before jumping to conclusions about a company's brand. Well-known brands are often the most sought-after employers, but they may not always be the best fit for your career aspirations.

3. Avoid burning bridges. It can be easy to let frustration boil over to the point where you want to tell off your boss and colleagues after landing a new job. However, it is important to realize that you very well could end up working with – or for – one of these individuals down the line.

The importance of keeping these tips in mind is highlighted by the fact that the government's Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey found recently that the number of people who quit their jobs increased by 4.4 percent in February, many of whom were young professionals. 

A new survey of hiring trends from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found the job market is picking up for college graduates.

The Job Outlook 2012 Spring Update Survey was conducted between February 8 and March 19 and included the responses of 160 organizations around the country that hire new college graduates on a regular basis.

Overall, the data suggests companies are planning to hire 10.2 percent more new graduates from the Class of 2012 than they did from last year's group. Employers expressed more optimism about their hiring prospects in the spring than they did the previous fall, the study found.

"Although employers haven’t revised their earlier projections significantly, this upward movement along with other positive economic indicators show that the job market for new college graduates is improving steadily," Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director, said in a statement.

Separate research conducted by NACE showed the overall median salary for Class of 2012 graduates is 4.5 percent higher than it was last year. The 2012 Salary Survey report suggested the overall median salary for graduates with a bachelor's degree has climbed to $42,569. 

Before Josh Porter ever enrolled in the W.P Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, he discovered the power of networking to find jobs in Arizona through the social media website LinkedIn, according to U.S. News & World Report.

In the fall of 2010, Porter used LinkedIn to contact an Arizona State alum, which later led to an introduction to another former Sun Devil  who hired Porter for an internship role. By the end of the summer, the graduate student had landed a full-time job.

"Being able to connect with alumni through LinkedIn really helped start the process to get this job offer," said Porter.

Around the country, business schools are pushing students to become familiar with social networking, and a number of them have even integrated LinkedIn into workshops and courses that teach leadership and organizational behavior, the media outlet stated.

In the world of social media, differentiating from other online job seekers will become paramount, Fox News reports.

While managing different forms of social media like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter can be overwhelming, the benefits of online social networking could result in new introductions, and possibly even job opportunities. 

Hiring trends indicate that while employers still seek the most qualified workers, the manner in which they do so has changed significantly. A recent Fox News column offers suggestions for job seekers to separate themselves from the rest of the crowd in the digital sphere.

1. Connect in person too. Don't be known just by your name and LinkedIn picture, make an in-person impression so that the recruiter remembers who you are.

2. Take advantage of career fairs. These are easy opportunities to meet with prospective employers that you may have already connected with through social media. Be sure to include links to your social media pages on the resume you hand out.

3. Use handwritten thank-you notes. Even if you attended a job chat with a recruiter on Twitter or another social media platform, be sure to send a handwritten note to mention something helpful that was shared during the conversation.

Distinguishing yourself from the thousands of active job seekers on the internet is critical as employers rely more heavily on LinkedIn, Facebook and other sites to predict the success of potential employees. 

McKinney, Texas-based Liberty National Life Insurance Company will expand into the Arizona market and create more than 100 Phoenix jobs for sales agents and managers, the Phoenix Business Journal reports.

Steve Hartman, office manager for the new Phoenix branch, told the news source that he hopes to open a new facility in the metropolitan Phoenix area every few months until the area has at least six locations.

"Once we’re established here, in 12 months my goal is to have the same business model in every state on the West Coast," said Hartman, who added that he made his first hire this week for an assistant unit manager position.

The average commission income for a representative with Liberty National Life Insurance within the first year of employment is more than $56,000, the office manager told the Business Journal.

The creation of new jobs in Phoenix comes as the city's unemployment rate continues to decline, dropping to 7.8 percent in February, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That figure ranks favorably when compared to the state and country, which sit at 8.7 and 8.2 percent respectively. 

The latest hiring trends indicate that employers are placing more of an emphasis on hiring candidates with mobile marketing skills, according to new research from WANTED Analytics.

Data suggests recruiters posted more than 6,000 job advertisements for marketing manager positions requiring mobile marketing abilities over the past 90 days. This represents a 26 percent increase from the same period last year, WANTED noted in a release. Since 2009, the demand for mobile marketing talent has risen more than 400 percent.

The most valuable mobile marketing skills and knowledge included Microsoft PowerPoint, search engine optimization (SEO), customer relationship management (CRM) and Microsoft Office, the study found.

New York led the way with more than 1,000 mobile marketing-related job advertisements over the past 90 days, while San Francisco, Seattle, San Jose and Los Angeles were also high on the list.

The shift toward higher demand for mobile marketing abilities highlights how important it is for job seekers to develop new skills during periods of unemployment. Such efforts can boost a resume and demonstrate the individual's commitment to finding a position.

With hiring trends suggesting companies are once again adding to their workforces, competing for the most talented employees becomes more difficult. Seeking out unconventional applicants who may have transferable skills can be one way to effectively identify quality workers, according to a recent Fox Business article.

Dan Veltri, co-founder and COO of Weebly.com, tells the publication that his company employs 17 stay-at-home parents in customer support roles. Veltri argues that the fact that these individuals work from home out of convenience doesn't imply they have a shortage of skills.

Suki Shah, co-founder and CEO of social recruiting site GetHired.com, adds that employers should not simply disregard a candidate's past experience that may not seem completely relevant.

"We always emphasize being able to assess candidates’ willingness to adapt," Shah tells Fox Business. "Even if they don’t have experience in a particular industry, are they able to apply their industry experience in a way that will solve the problem."

Employers should also avoid completely dismissing candidates with long-term employment gaps, as these individuals are often highly motivated to break back into the workforce.

The number of Phoenix jobs continues to increase as the metropolitan area's unemployment rate declined one-tenth of a percentage point to 7.8 percent in February, according to the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Though the decline from January to February was relatively small, it mirrored that of the the national rate in March, which fell to 8.2 percent. Overall, the 7.8 percent jobless level in Phoenix is significantly lower than the 9 percent mark from last February, the Phoenix Business Journal reports.

Phoenix was not alone with a dropping unemployment rate in February, as 344 of the 372 metro areas across the nation experienced similar dips, noted the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The largest year-over-year jobless declines were seen in three Michigan cities.

As the Phoenix employment situation appears to be improving, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton is reportedly planning to discuss the next steps toward economic recovery in his inaugural address this week. Stanton will reportedly discuss better funding for early childhood education and diversifying the local economy, according to The Associated Press.

Finding the best workers is critical for employers, particularly with the economy still in recovery mode and budgets remaining tight. ERE Media recently published a list of the most successful recruitment sources, based on the latest hiring trends.

1. Former employees. These individuals have experience with the company and understand what their responsibilities entail. No surprise here.

2. Passive Candidates. This group includes professionals who are not actively seeking jobs, but are potentially considering a career change.

3. Employee Referrals. Finding like-minded workers can be beneficial, particularly when considering the corporate culture dynamic.

4. Staffing agencies. Applicants who utilize staffing firms have been pre-screened and have the necessary skills to quickly fit into their new role.

5. Contract-to-hire conversions. Individuals who obtain employment through temp agencies welcome the opportunity to impress their new employers. They can learn the ropes and quickly adapt to the company culture, giving them a leg up on other candidates.

6. Job boards. Though these advertisements still play an important role, they can lack the personal touch of active recruitment.

Though not explicitly included in the list compiled by ERE, social networking sites and mobile applications are rapidly becoming major recruiting sources. LinkedIn, for example, is an effective way to get in touch with "passive" candidates who may not necessarily be looking for a job. 

While jobs secured through temp agencies offer a tryout for a permanent position, volunteer work can be an effective way to supplement the job search. Apart from filling long-term gaps in your resume, volunteering offers a chance to learn about a new industry and make important contacts who could be helpful down the line.

Career expert Alison Green, writing for U.S. News & World Report, explains that professionals considering changing careers can volunteer to learn if a new field is right for them. Green adds that while potential reward of volunteering could be a permanent position, any downside is limited. At the very least, you'll meet new people, assist in the community and boost your level of experience.

Volunteering can also do great things for a job seeker's self confidence, particularly for those who have been involved in a lengthy employment search.

"It's easy to start questioning your value when you're out of work, especially if you're not getting many interviews," Green says. "Volunteering can give you a sense of accomplishment that can turn your attitude around—and that often comes through to employers."

Local publications can be good resources to find volunteer opportunities, especially when it comes to holiday celebrations and annual events.

The latest employment trends from the Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate the national unemployment rate fell to 8.2 percent in March, its lowest level since January 2009.

Nonfarm payroll employment climbed by 120,000 positions last month, with manufacturing, food services, healthcare and financial activities leading the charge. Still, that figure was lower than most economists had predicted, and fell below 200,000 for the first month since November.

"We are disappointed," Anthony Chan, the chief economist at JPMorgan Wealth Management, told The Associated Press. "But when you go inside and lift the hood, the numbers look a little better."

Many economists noted that the surprisingly warm winter weather across the country contributed to many companies adding workers earlier. Some pointed to the encouraging signs that factories, hotels and restaurants exhibited strong job growth.

The Arizona economy has mirrored the success of the country in recent months, as the state added 27,900 new jobs in February, the month's largest gain since 2007, according to the Department of Administration. Arizona's unemployment rate held steady at 8.7 percent.

Current employment trends signal a shift to more professionals changing careers. With this in mind, here are a few strategies that can ease the transition, according to MoneyWatch.

1. Find a connection to the new industry. Focus on one aspect of the field that you are familiar with from previous experience and emphasize this connection when speaking with prospective employers. 

2. You may take an initial pay cut. If you are truly committed to switching careers, realize that your experience level is not where it was in the previous industry. A career change is an investment, and it will likely take time to reach prior pay levels.

3. Don't be afraid to be wrong. Taking the leap into a new field inherently means there are many things you will learn. Go into the new role with an open mind, as you may gain information that changes your previous perceptions.

Taking these strategies into consideration has become even more important with a recent Mercer poll finding 40 percent of employees between the ages of 25 and 34 are contemplating leaving their jobs. 

The hiring outlook among U.S. companies for the second quarter of this year are similar to the levels seen prior to the recession, according to a newly released hiring trends survey from CareerBuilder.

The study, which included responses from more than 2,000 hiring managers and human resources professionals within firms across all industries, found one-third of employers added full-time, permanent staff last quarter.

Conducted between February 9 and March 2, the survey found 30 percent of employers were planning to hire permanent workers between April and June, a similar percentage to 2007.

"We have moved from an anemic job market to one that is stable and growing," Matt Ferguson, CEO of CareerBuilder, said in a release. He added that the number of internet job listings is increasing as companies become more confident in their business prospects.

The addition of contract workers is also increasing around the country, with 34 percent of employers saying they planned to bring on temporary employees in the second quarter, a 26 percent increase over last year.

The Business Roundtable, a group that includes CEOs from a number of companies, also found recently that 42 percent of its members expect to hire over the next six months, an increase of 7 percent from three months ago.

Arizona's commitment to renewable energy – highlighted by its success in the solar industry – has provided a significant boost to Phoenix employment. Now, a number of local companies have begun to establish green business practices, according to the Arizona Republic.

Phoenix recently held the Green Vendors Showcase of Opportunities, during which it became clear that city officials are becoming more interested in bringing sustainable businesses to the region.

Darice Ellis, an environmental quality specialist with the Phoenix Office of Environmental Programs, told the Republic that green practices are a critical determining factor when the city decides to partner with a company.

"We're talking about the triple bottom line – community, environment and the economy – in terms of green business," added Carolyn Bristo, assistant public works director for Phoenix. "From a business development opportunity, you're helping our business to grow and thrive through making connections and creating jobs and generating revenue through selling their products."

Arizona's commitment to green energy could be seen in the recent agreement between Arizona Public Service Company and the Arizona State Land Department to construct a 35-megawatt solar plant in Yuma. The project is expected to create 100 construction jobs and a number of permanent solar positions, according to the Yuma Sun. 

Determining whether or not you fit into a prospective company's culture can give you the peace of mind that you'll be happy in a new job. The following tools from a recent U.S. News & World Report article can allow you to fully investigate the office environment prior to interviewing with an employer.

1. Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites. Following the Twitter and Facebook pages of the company can give you insight into its general atmosphere, from corporate outings to announcements recognizing employee accomplishments.

2. Google alerts. This is one of the best ways to compile any news about the firm, or even your prospective bosses. Editorials, press releases and other news stories can show you what's important to the people in the company.

3. Information interviews with current workers. Using LinkedIn, you can see if you have any connections with employees at the firm. Send them a message to see if they would be willing to talk about what it's like to work for the company.

For candidates, humor can be key to fitting into a corporate culture. A recent employment trends survey found 79 percent of chief financial officers believe an employee's sense of humor is important for them to fit into the office environment.

Hiring Generation Y employees is taking on added importance considering staffing trends indicate these individuals will make up 75 percent of the workforce by 2025. The following are a few tactics to keep in mind when bringing aboard – and developing – younger workers, according to Inc. magazine.

1. Skip Facebook when it comes to hiring. Rather than asking for candidates' Facebook passwords, spend time cultivating your company's brand through your website and LinkedIn. Research suggests 80 percent of Generation Y applicants look at their potential employer's web presence, according to Inc.

2. Emphasize upward mobility. Even if your company can't offer the highest salary, many Generation Y workers actually care more about their ability to advance within the company. Small firms, in particular, should demonstrate how an employee can climb the ranks.

3. Make them want to stick around. Though younger employees are apt to change jobs more regularly, they actually do try to stay at a company for an extended period. Offering instant feedback can go a long way toward keeping these individuals on board.

Members of Generation Y are also more likely to value a flexible work schedule, rather than the typical 9 to 5 workday.

Recent surveys of employment trends indicate that companies currently face a dearth of qualified workers, putting seasoned professionals in high demand. However, to best sell yourself to an employer after the age of 50, it's critical to gather certain pieces of information, the Huffington Post reports.

1. View job postings as a research resource. A company's job advertisement can offer you clues as to the type of candidate they are seeking, including in-demand skills. If you have these qualities, make them prominent. If not, you can always invest in online training.

2. Stay current with the latest trends in your industry around the world. This knowledge can help you determine where the available jobs are and how likely it is that you could advance within the field.

3. Research your position. Even if you have held a similar role for many years, research can demonstrate to prospective employers that you are still at your peak. Plus, if you are considering changing careers, this research can give you information on the standard education level and how you should present yourself to hiring companies.

Professionals with years of experience are becoming increasingly integral for firms, as a recent report from one staffing agency found the recruitment of skilled professionals is one of the major challenges facing financial organizations.

With current hiring trends continuing to signal the importance of networking, learning to do so effectively is critical. A recent Harvard Business Review article adapted from a new book by Bill Barnett notes that when it comes to networking, it's best to be aggressive.

1. Define a broad network of contacts. Family, friends and former co-workers are the obvious contacts, but it's important to look outside the box. Former classmates, clients' acquaintances from the local community can all have something to offer in your network.

2. Keep records of your networking experiences. "Connecting with many people can be complicated. After each meeting, write down what you learned and what you'll do as a result," Barnett writes.

3. Treat each meeting as a new opportunity to learn. The conversations you have with contacts should extend beyond jobs, so be sure to ask about the industry in general, career path and other useful information.

Professional networking is still most effective when done in person. Even many LinkedIn groups are beginning to organize face-to-face meet-ups, according to a recent Chicago Daily Herald column.

The latest employment trends suggest Arizona experienced its highest February employment gain since 2007 last month, an indication that the state's economy is truly in recovery mode.

The figures, released by the state Department of Administration, show Arizona added 27,900 positions between January and February, the Arizona Daily Sun reports. In addition to being the best report since 2007, that number is higher than the average February gain of 26,300 over the past decade, according to Aruna Murthy, the agency's director of economic analysis.

Beckie Holmes, an economist with Cox Communications, told the Arizona Republic that while the overall job gains were still considered "average" for February, the numbers bode well for the local economy moving forward.

"The improvement was solid relative to recent history and consistent with a recovery that is starting to gain momentum," Holmes explained. "If current trends continue, we should begin to see strength in the broader economy in the coming months."

Though Arizona's unemployment rate held at 8.7 percent in February, that figure is still relatively close to the 8.3 percent national rate, according to the Republic.

Santa Clara, California-based Silicon Valley Bank plans to create more than 400 new high-paying jobs in Arizona through the opening of an information technology center in Tempe, according to the Arizona Republic.

The state and Maricopa County are reportedly investing $4 million in the bid to bring the new facility to Tempe. The technology-oriented positions, which will be created over a seven-year period, are expected to have an average annual salary of at least $88,000, the Republic reports.

Silicon Valley Bank, which has already begun to hire workers and relocate some of its current employees, chose Tempe due to its affordability and the proximity to the corporate headquarters.

The grants from the state and county will be based on evidence of successful job creation, and officials are confident the financial institution will contribute significantly to the local economy.

"I feel we have a good agreement that gets what we need from a good investment," Chris Bradley, director of the county’s Department of Business Strategies and Health Care Programs, told the news source.

The bank's decision to boost employment in Arizona comes just days after a telecommunications company and a transportation firm announced job creation plans in Phoenix and Tucson, respectively, according to the Phoenix Business Journal. 

Though mobile recruiting and social media sites represent the latest staffing trends, personal interaction is still the key to landing a position.

The impact of a handwritten thank-you note following an interview has been well-documented, but an effective business card can often be overlooked. A recent U.S. News & World Report article suggests these cards can be critical networking tools, even if you aren't currently employed.

Basic information such as your address, phone numbers and specific job experience are important to include, but professionals should also be sure to add links to their website, blog and relevant social media pages.

Similar to a resume, keep the font consistent throughout and make sure to choose thicker-stock paper. Choosing a unique way to display your information – vertically rather than horizontally for instance – can be effective, but don't let it detract from the important information.

When attending networking events, U.S. News & World Report suggests bringing plenty of business cards and being generous with the amount you hand out.

Face-to-face networking is a major topic among younger generations that are more apt to choose electronic communication tools. A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center and Elon University found many Americans believe Millennials will lose in-person networking skills as technological advancements continue to be made. 

Professionals seeking jobs in Phoenix and other cities across the state are beginning to see more opportunities, as two companies recently announced plans to create hundreds of positions.

Transportation management firm GlobalTranz, which is based in Phoenix, is hiring 100 employees for customer service and sales positions, according to the Phoenix Business Journal. The move comes as GlobalTranz recently began construction on a new 75,000-square-foot facility on High Street in Phoenix.

The hiring plans follow the firm's addition of 100 new workers in May 2010, the Business Journal reported.

Southeast of Phoenix in Tucson, an Illinois-based company says it will add 150 employees in April. Afni Inc., which runs contact centers for companies in industries like finance, healthcare, insurance and others, plans to add customer care consultants at its four Tucson locations, according to the Arizona Republic.

Afni, which is one of Arizona's 100 largest non-government employers with more than 2,000 local workers, will hold a job fair on April 3 to accept applications and conduct interviews, the news source said. 

With current hiring trends suggesting social media has become one of the best ways to land a position, it is important for job seekers to proceed with caution when it comes to connecting with prospective employers.

Networking through sites like Facebook and LinkedIn becomes particularly tricky when the hiring manager or interviewer sends you a friend request after you meet with them. A recent MSNBC article notes you should feel free to decline these offers or wait until hearing back about your job prospects.

If you believe accepting the friend request will truly aid your chances of getting the position, another strategy can be to change the privacy settings so the hiring manager only sees certain portions of your profile, the article suggests.

A post-hire Facebook request can be dealt with in a number of ways as well. Whenever possible, you should direct bosses and colleagues to LinkedIn by saying that's where your professional connections are.

With new privacy settings, some employers have reportedly asked candidates for their Facebook passwords to view their profiles. This, however, could be illegal, and two U.S. senators are calling for an investigation into the practice, according to The Associated Press.

Most candidates are aware of the major gaffes to avoid when interviewing with temp agencies or prospective employers. LinkedIn recently compiled a list of interview tips that go beyond the standard "Don't arrive late" or "Wear nice clothes," according to Business Insider.

1. Avoid trashing former employers. This is particularly true when interviewing with someone in the same industry where you have previously worked.

2. Be conscious of your driving habits on the way to and from the interview. While this may seem far-fetched, the hiring manager could be the person you cut off on the road. It's better to be safe than sorry.

3. Bring a pen and paper to take notes. "I hate it when people turn up for an interview and don't bother to bring a pen and paper with them," one business development professional said in the LinkedIn article. "Interviews are as much about candidates learning about companies as it is the other way around."

4. Answer questions without leading with "I think" or "I may." This can exhibit a lack of confidence in your responses.

Doing your homework on the company is also critical prior to the interview, as this will demonstrate a genuine interest in the position.

Current staffing trends suggest a "references available upon request" line is no longer necessary on a resume, but most companies still ask potential employees to present a third-party recommendation as a final step in the evaluation process. The following strategies can ensure you are not caught off guard when asked to provide a reference to the hiring manager, according to U.S. News & World Report.

1. Ask for LinkedIn endorsements while your work is still fresh in the minds of your co-workers. Even if you aren't actively seeking employment, collecting strong reviews on LinkedIn can contribute to an effective online brand.

2. Never list someone as a reference before getting their permission. This should be done by placing a phonecall or sending an email to each of your contacts on an individual basis.

3. If you've previously worked with your contact, remind them of projects you completed together. Providing an updated version of your resume with your contributrions highlighted can make it easier for the reference to answer questions from a prospective employer.

The recommendations you obtain can also vary depending on the position for which you are applying, according to CareerBuilder. Focus on your experience that will be most relevant for the specific job when considering who should be your reference. 

Hiring is poised to increase across several industries this year as employers begin to gain confidence and add more jobs in Arizona, the Arizona Republic reports.

Apart from those sectors that typically lead the way – including healthcare, retail, private education and transportation – software development and other areas of technology are also likely to see significant gains.

MiTek Industries, one company that manufactures construction components, is reportedly planning to double the size of its Phoenix plant as consumer spending begins to pick up again, according to the Republic. The company could add up to 40 new workers later this year.

"We are going to see a lot more employment in transportation and warehousing as people expect the economy to recover," Lora Mwaniki-Lyman, a research economist at the University of Arizona, told the news source. "And, as a result of that, in anticipation of consumer spending, the retail sector is also going to be expanding."

These positive employment trends have already begun to manifest themselves, as Arizona ranked 12th overall in job creation between January 2011 and January 2012, according to analysis from Arizona State University.

With current employment trends suggesting millions of Americans are out of work and two-thirds of workers are willing to change jobs, the value of social media continues to climb. Here are some strategies for demonstrating your worth to prospective employers without broadcasting the fact that you are actively seeking employment, according to Mashable.

1. Update your profiles on all major social networking sites including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Be sure they are as complete as possible, particularly with key skills, experience and education.

2. Participate on the social media sites, but don't call attention to the fact that you are seeking a job. This lets prospective companies come to you and prevents current employers from thinking you are trying to leave.

3. Carefully monitor your privacy settings and update profiles regularly. If you suddenly change your settings and make changes to your profile, it could be obvious to all contacts that you are actively looking for new opportunities.

Being proactive yet discreet takes on added importance considering the proliferation of social networking in the job search. According to Jobvite, 54 percent of social media users have used Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter in their job hunt over the past year.

Current hiring trends suggest employers are focusing more on a prospective candidate's ability to fit into the company's culture. A recent Business Insider column notes there are many strategies firms can adopt to maintain a positive work environment.

1. Honesty, openness and transparency need to come from the top. The owner of the business and leading executives should keep their employees in the loop at all times.

2. Foster a bottom-up approach. Give workers a voice and allow them to feel comfortable expressing their opinions. Sharing best practices from experiences outside of the company can have major benefits for the business as a whole.

3. Award employees based on corporate values. Many incentive programs are short-sighted and blindly reward workers for what is seen as productivity. Be sure to close the loopholes to ensure those who are recognized are performing their responsibilities with integrity.

Much has been made recently about creating a positive work environment, following the departure of a Goldman Sachs executive and his New York Times editorial that criticized the manner in which clients were treated at the firm. 

Recent research from Arizona State University suggests jobs in Phoenix are growing more rapidly than in the vast majority of other states, ABC 15 reports.

Lee McPheters of the W.P. Carey School of Business ranked the Phoenix metro area seventh in the country in job growth between January 2011 and the same month this year. Houston, Atlanta and Denver led the way, said McPheters, who based his research on the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The growth experienced in Phoenix boosted Arizona's overall labor market, which has seen marked improvement in the last year, according to McPheters.

"Here in Arizona, the state ranked No. 12 in job creation," McPheters said. "That's a vast improvement from last year at this time, when it ranked No. 40."

American Express is the latest major company to announce its commitment to adding new jobs in Arizona. The firm, which is the 16th largest employer in the Phoenix area, recently announced plans to hire approximately 500 more local workers for customer service positions by the end of the second quarter, a company official told the Phoenix Business Journal.

The latest hiring trends indicate that a long period of unemployment may not be detrimental to your chances of landing a job. There are many ways to fill large employment gaps in a resume, according to a recent Forbes article.

1. Take a contract or temporary position. This has the dual benefit of padding your resume while showing your ability to complete a set of responsibilities at a company that may be hiring for permanent jobs.

2. Enroll in a class. "You never stop learning in your career, so the more technical competence you have, the better," author and career expert Andy Teach states in the article. "When you take a class in your field, you are also showing that you are serious about your work and that you take initiative."

3. Write a professional blog. This can be a good way to market yourself while maintaining a strong online profile, the article notes.

Unemployed professionals are beginning to see more opportunities to re-enter the workforce. According to a recent CareerBuilder survey, 85 percent of hiring managers said they are more understanding of employment gaps since the recession. 

UnitedHealth Group, the largest health insurance company in the country, is expanding its presence and adding hundreds of new customer service and management jobs in Arizona by the end of 2013.

The company's OptumRx unit anticipates its new offices at the University of Arizona Science and Technology Park will be open by the middle of this year. Fully staffed, the facility will house 400 new workers, according to the Arizona Republic.

The Arizona Commerce Authority has reportedly agreed to contribute $200,000 to aid the company's expansion into the new office. UnitedHealth Group already employs nearly 3,000 individuals in the state, the Republic reports.

"The hundreds of jobs Optum will create here over the coming months show that Arizona is a premier destination for the growth of innovative businesses such as Optum," Governor Jan Brewer said in a statement.

The 400 new positions represent the latest boost to the Arizona economy, which added 37,800 new jobs from January 2011 to the same month this year, according to the state Department of Administration. New estimates from Microsoft show Arizona could bring in 8,500 cloud computing-related positions by the end of this year. 

Arizona hosted the highest rate of innovators creating new businesses of any state last year, according to a recently released report on employment trends from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.

The annual Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity found for every 100,000 Arizona residents between the ages of 18 and 64, 520 established a new venture on average each month of 2011. This dwarfed the national average of 320, the Arizona Republic reports.

While researchers acknowledge it is most accurate to view the statistics over a period of a few years, Arizona's index has reportedly trended upwards since the early 2000s, according to the news source.

Wade Rusk, a Cave Creek resident, told the Republic that he started his heating and cooling sales and service business out of a desire to work for himself.

"The one thing that prompted me to break loose and start my own business is that it was just kind of a need of mine," Rusk said. "I wasn't fulfilled working for somebody else. I knew I could do it, and I learned a lot about how to do it better working for one of the biggest companies in the Valley."

Job seekers can learn a lot from innovative startup companies, particularly when it comes to looking for potential niche opportunities, according to Business Insider.