The Recruitment and Employment Federation (REC) have forecasted that 2011 will be a mixed year in the employment market.

With the cuts in public sector employment, many contractors and other professionals will be expecting a gloomy year, employment-wise.

However, 23 per cent of businesses have reported they are planning to employ more permanent staff in the 2011, as well a further 32 per cent who have said they will be expanding their temporary workforce.

Kevin Green, the REC's Chief Executive said: "Demand for staff is likely to continue expanding in areas such as financial services, export-focused industries and knowledge intensive sectors such as technology and pharmaceuticals."

Meanwhile, Zain Wadee of hyphen has warned that contractors and other professionals looking for a career change should ensure the decision is not due to post-Christmas blues.

The expert warned that New Year 2011 will be a busy time for the jobs market, with many people hoping for a fresh start.