A positive outlook remains amid the current difficulties in the job market. Some employees say they have grown from the experience of trying to keep their positions. Seventy-five percent of workers, according to a survey by Accountemps, a staffing service that questioned 457 employees, say they have had at least one encouraging outcome from the recession.

Several employees started working on new projects during these sluggish times. Other encouraging effects include: increasing responsibility, tackling more difficult work, interacting more with management and spending more time communicating with clients or customers.

"Because of the realities of today's business environment, firms are working with leaner teams, which has, out of necessity, given many professionals the opportunity to take on greater challenges and expand their skill sets," says Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International.

"But many employees may be struggling to keep up, and employers need to ensure they provide the resources staff need to be successful and avoid becoming overburdened."

Although employees seem to be increasing their workloads, the extra assignments still haven't been officially rewarded. Only 12 percent of workers have been offered promotions.

"While many employees are willing to stick it out during difficult times, companies must be prepared to reward those who have taken on added responsibilities as soon as business conditions improve or risk losing valued staff," says Messmer.

"Organizations that can't provide promotions or financial incentives now should look for other ways to recognize top performers and let them know there is a long-term vision for them within the organization."

For more information, visit www.accountemps.com.

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