Although the downturn has proven tough for workers, those who are still employed say they're gaining more from the experience than just managing to keep their jobs. Seventy-seven percent of professionals interviewed cited at least one positive effect the recession has had on their jobs, including the ability to tackle new projects (53 percent), assume additional responsibility (52 percent) and take on more challenging work (52 percent). But according to most respondents, the extra work has yet to be formally rewarded: Only 12 percent said they have received promotions.

The national survey included responses from 457 workers 18 years of age or older and employed full or part time in an office environment. It was conducted by an independent research firm and developed by Accountemps, the world's first and largest specialized staffing service for temporary accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals.

Workers were asked, "What positive effects, if any, has the recession had on you and your job?" Their responses*:

Taken on new projects 53%
Gained more responsibility 52%
Taken on more challenging work 52%
Had more interactions with management 44%
Had more interactions with clients or customers 38%
Been promoted 12%
None of these 23%

* Multiple responses were allowed

"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," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International and author of Human Resources Kit For Dummies(R), 2nd Edition (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.). "But some 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."