Hiring is expected to pick up for the rest of 2011, but economists warn that overall economic growth will continue to be slow.

A survey of companies released Monday by the National Association for Business Economists shows 43 percent of respondents say their firms will increase employment in the next six months.

None of the respondents plan any major layoffs, but 49 percent don't expect any change in their company's hiring.

The manufacturing sector had the strongest outlook for more hiring, followed by transportation, utilities, information, and communications.