3 Sure Signs the Economy Is Improving

by Paula Santonocito

One of the many great things about being a writer specializing in employment issues is that I have insight into the fact (and fiction) behind the attention-grabbing headlines and sound bites that make up a typical news day.

Thanks in part to my work as AIRS News editor, I get an inside--and early--look at changes in business activity. Researching and writing the bimonthly AIRS News Mergers & IPOs and Outplacements reports provide an opportunity to observe shifts in the business cycle.

Now that I've had a chance to watch the cycle a few times from this vantage point, I can indeed report that the economic outlook is improving. Here's why.

IPOs have increased. More companies are going public, which speaks to money freeing up, as well as confidence in the economy. It's also worth noting that these companies span a range of industries.

M&As are more strategic in nature. Where for the last year or so many alliances have been formed out of necessity (desperation), recent deals have long-range goals in mind.

Layoffs have slowed. Although job cuts haven't gone away (and, by the way, they never do), fewer companies are announcing new layoffs. Meanwhile, those employers with plans to cut staff aren't cutting as deep.

But don't take my analysis at face value. Check out the most recent issue of AIRS News Mergers & IPOs. Then visit the AIRS News Mergers & IPOs archive and do your own comparison.

Likewise, compare the September 28, 2009 AIRS News Outplacements report to previous editions, like the January 19, 2009 issue or the February 16, 2009 report.

Then, if you haven't already, start planning for recovery.