In an effort to establish comprehensive, accurate data on the area’s workforce, WorkSource will conduct a workforce survey. If a business has more than five employees, they will get a call.

This is the 6th annual survey. Like the 2002 survey, it separates metro Jacksonville and Orange Park data from the surrounding counties, which will result in more accurate salary tracking.

The survey information will be gathered through telephone interviews, and will help WorkSource in predicting future workforce trends, and serving as a resource to local employers. The information will benefit job seekers, employers, students, education and training organizations, and economic development efforts. The survey results will be used to update the interactive web site (www.usworks.com/jacksonville). The site now contains the 2002 survey data, and receives about 100,000 hits per month from users all over the world.

The dynamic web site also offers employers a customized recruiting site through its Business Online feature. Job seekers can build electronic resumes through the site, and email alerts let business and applicants know when their skills and needs match. As of July 2003, over 1500 businesses and 5,600 jobseekers had registered to use the site.

“Because this information will be such a vital help to employers, it is important that they take the time to participate in the survey,” said Bruce Ferguson, acting CEO for WorkSource. “The information will help employers be more competitive in salary and benefits, and help job seekers know what to expect in Jacksonville’s job market,” he said. “The data will be up-to-date, accessible, and very local.”

The telephone interviews will begin the week of August 25, 2003. Employers will receive a pre-survey fax alert prior to their call. Individual interviews, conducted with a Human Resources representative or hiring authority, will last about 10 minutes. Following completion of the survey, the data will be compiled and analyzed and the 2003 results should be on the web site by the end of November. Employers can ensure that they are contacted for the survey by calling WorkSource at (904) 798-9229, extension 2201.