Overall candidate availability continued to decline sharply during March, at its softest pace for a year, according to the latest HIS Markit/REC ‘Report on Jobs’.
Pay for temporary/contract staff rose at the quickest pace since last September. Although more people are entering employment, it is not compensating for the shortfall of candidates for many roles.
Tom Hadley, REC director of policy, said: “Employers are increasing starting pay to draw candidates away from current roles into new positions. Growth in pay for temporary roles especially is accelerating.”
“Candidates planning to move jobs have a strong chance of getting a pay rise. With inflation outstripping pay growth for over a year now, high pay offers will be tempting,” he added.
According to the report, regionally, Scotland saw the sharpest rise in temp billings at the end of the first quarter, though growth was also sharp across the Midlands and the South of England. Modest growth was registered in London and the North of England.
Vacancies for both permanent and temporary staff across the public sector rose at steeper rates compared to those seen in February.
All job categories monitored by the survey signalled stronger demand for temporary/contract staff in March. Hotel & Catering saw the most pronounced increase in demand for short term staff, followed by Blue Collar.
The shortage in candidates means it is a great time for candidates to apply for positions. For a confidential chat about your career and where you would like to be, please call 01925 838 600.
