More unemployed workers consider starting small businesses

As the job economy continues to disappoint unemployed Americans, more and more individuals are considering become their own bosses.

A new CareerBuilder survey has found that in the past six months, more than one-quarter of workers have debated starting their own business rather than continue looking for a job. However, of the 4,400 workers who did launch their own business, 96 percent report that, they were forced to take on a secondary source of income.

"The intellectual capital that companies were forced to lay off over the last 18-24 months was substantial, and it is not surprising that many individuals are using their business skills to create their own opportunities," says Brent Rasmussen, president of the company’s North American division.

The survey also found that 32 percent of small businesses plan to hire new employees during the second half of the year.

In June, unemployment declined in 39 states, which is a slight increase from May, when 37 states reported a decline. However, net job gains dropped dramatically. Compared to 41 states last month, only 21 state experienced an increase.