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This blog is an abridged version of an article by Fiona Irvine, which appeared in The Scotsman on 9th February 2021. You can read the full article here.
New Year, New Career – and a new commitment for looking for that new role. That’s the typical start to a year I’ve grown used to after 30 years in recruitment. Until now. 2021 has seen a tumbleweed start to the year for the jobs market, which will impact both employees and employers.
Our role is to help employers and candidates find their perfect match, but whilst we’ve been positively surprised at the volume of recruitment over the last 12 months – both senior and more junior opportunities, there’s been a real lack of good quality candidates despite the regular media broadcast of job losses. There are several factors at play:
- People are concerned about leaving a secure job in the middle of a pandemic. Whilst understanding this caution, many businesses have been booming and offer great career moves, with good levels of job security. Contrary to many perceptions, now is a great time to get into the employment market – there’s less competition and pent-up demand in many sectors offers great job security when areas like retail and hospitality open up more opportunities later in the year
- People on furlough are not considering a job move, or are anxious at the thought of going back to work at all. Transitioning from their “new normal” back to work needs careful support and is a very real challenge for both employers and employees
- Whilst increasing numbers of people are facing redundancy, we are unlikely to see a rush of available candidates until the furlough scheme ends. Even when this scheme ends, there is likely to be work available, albeit in different sectors and roles as our economy changes. Those who are willing to be flexible are most likely to be able to stay in employment.
We’re seeing a real shift in flexibility by businesses wanting to attract the best talent, with home working now seen as a genuine option: vacancies are being opened up across the UK will full flexible working, allowing the business to potentially save on salary costs and reach a significantly wider pool of candidates.
In addition, the way the business has supported its people during the pandemic will also be key to candidates deciding to work with an employer. In our experience trust, flexibility and providing active personal wellbeing initiatives are all factors candidates are looking for in potential new roles.
Get in touch with us today to find out more about how we can help with your business’ recruitment needs.
