Grant Thornton's 12th Annual Survey of Community Bank Executives has found that bankers once again anticipate increasing the number of employees in the coming year, with 51% planning on increasing employee headcount in 2005.
The survey also shows that essentially most (93%) community bankers see "retaining key employees" as important to continued success. In addition, almost half (45%) expect no changes in the number of employees; and only 4% of bankers foresee a decrease in headcount.
"Bankers recognize the importance of their employees to the future success of their banks," said John Ziegelbauer, managing partner of Grant Thornton's financial institutions industry practice. "They are the bank's public 'face'; not only inside the walls, but outside among the community, as well. A community bank's employees often are its most valuable assets."
The survey is based on responses from 442 completed questionnaires.
