Desperately seeking more staff
NEW staff will be in demand over the next few months, according to the latest research, although many firms are worried that they will struggle to find suitably skilled workers. Recruiters Manpower found that 19 per cent of employers expect to increase th
NEW staff will be in demand over the next few months, according to the latest research, although many firms are worried that they will struggle to find suitably skilled workers.
Recruiters Manpower found that 19 per cent of employers expect to increase the number of workers on their books over the next quarter.
But two out of five fear they will find it hard to attract the highly skilled staff they are seeking.
Over 2,000 companies were quizzed about their plans for the immediate future.
Researchers found that just six per cent of bosses expect to cut jobs over the next three months, while three quarters intend to stay just as they are.
Manpower said confidence was highest among employers in the finance and business services sectors.
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High bonuses in the City of London and a bullish stock market are fuelling this positive atmosphere, experts said.
Meanwhile, manufacturing companies reported their best outlook since 1998 on the back of improved exports levels and inward investment.
An uplift in the leisure sector has also boosted employment hopes in the hotel and retail sector, the report said.
Things are looking particularly sunny in the North East of England where firms are the most optimistic about recruiting new staff over the coming three months.
The South West was the only part of the country forecasting job cuts.
"The uplift in hiring intentions we saw at the start of the year is continuing across all business sectors and almost all regions of the UK," said Mark Cahill, managing director of Manpower.
"Success in the markets is breeding success in recruitment as companies seek to maximise potential new business opportunities," he added.
However, nearly 40 per cent of employers reported difficulties in recruiting people with the right skills, meaning they are going to have to up their game if they want to remain competitive.
"It has never been more important for employers to pay close attention to the salary, benefits and career opportunities they offer their staff," Mr Cahill added.
