Employee confidence slightly decreased by 1.2 points in April, after steadily increasing over the last three months, according to the latest Randstad U.S. Employment Report. Prompted by increased concerns about the economy and job market, just over a quarter (27 percent) of employees believe the economy is getting stronger. This is down 5 percent from last month, indicating that U.S. workers are cautious about the current economic climate.

"Despite a slight dip in our overall index, we do not anticipate this being the start of a potential cooling of worker confidence," said Joanie Ruge, senior vice president & chief employment analyst for Randstad US Holding. "In fact, from a historical standpoint, U.S. worker confidence in April is higher than this time in both 2011 and 2010, and personal confidence is up for the fourth consecutive month. One thing to keep in mind is that the recession was very deep. Jobs are being created—albeit slower than most would like—we are still seeing moderate job growth. Additionally, we are seeing gains in the U.S. housing industry, gas prices start to decline, and retail sales picked up in March—all which will hopefully contribute to increased employee confidence in months to come."

The online survey was conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Randstad. It surveyed 1,333 employed U.S. adults, aged 18 and over between April 10-12, 2012.

Look Inside the Report:

Employee Confidence Index Down Slightly, Remaining Strong:

• The Employee Confidence Index was down slightly this month, registering at 54.3 in April, after reaching 55.5 in March—its highest level in four years

Employee's Attitudes Towards the Economy and Job Market Decline after Seventh Consecutive Rise:

• Just over a quarter, 27 percent, of employees indicate the economy is getting stronger—down 5 percent from March
• 49 percent of employees believe there are fewer jobs available in the market right now, down 2 percent from March

Optimistic Around the Ability to Find a New Job Stable:

• Almost half of employees (46 percent) feel confident in their ability to find a new job, showing optimism remains strong

Workers Steady in their Jobs; Majority Unlikely to Leave Current Position:

• 72 percent of employees feel it is not likely they will lose their job in the next year
• A slight majority of those surveyed, 54 percent, indicate they are not likely to look for a new job in the next year