THE UK employment market is heading for its most prosperous period for six years. A new report has revealed firms are more optimistic about recruiting staff in the New Year than at any time since 1998. A survey of 2,100 employers showed a positive outlook for jobs in the next few months, especially in finance and business services.The poll, by employment group Manpower, revealed that agriculture was the only sector where cutbacks were expected.The survey is a shot in the arm for economists who have been expecting growth to slow in 2004. It is also a boost for the recruitment industry which has been suffering since the global economic downturn of 2001. Employers in the North East were most optimistic, while those in London, the North West, West Midlands and eastern regions were least likely to take on new staff.Mark Cahill, managing director at Manpower, said: 'These figures are extremely positive, particularly as the first three months of the year are traditionally a quieter time for recruitment, as companies scale back after Christmas.'With low levels of unemployment it is very much a jobseekers' market, and the opportunity is there for candidates to develop their experience and skills.'In this climate, employers need to review recruitment procedures and benefits packages in order to attract the best candidates.'