Specialist skills in high demand

Despite a slowdown in the labour market, hiring for specialist roles has increased considerably compared to last year, finds a new report.

This is according to the recent Totaljobs Hiring Trends Index, which revealed that the education, IT & Telecoms and transport sectors are the top industries increasing their spending for specialist roles.

The data also shows that a combination of the cost-of-living crisis and rising inflation remains the greatest challenge for businesses with 49% of firms expecting staff demand for higher salaries (due to rising living costs) to have the biggest impact on their operations this year.

Steve Warnham, senior researcher at Totaljobs, said, “While there might be signs of a slowdown, the pull for top talent means the market will remain tight. The impact of an impending economic slump will look very different to 2008.

“The cost-of-living crisis continues to be the main driver behind candidate behaviour, with over half of those looking for a new job putting a higher salary as a top priority.

“Job seekers are looking for security and transparency so striking the right balance between pay, workplace culture and benefits will be vital to standing out in the market over the next 12 months.”

To find out more about contracting please contact Sophie on 01206 591 000 or email sophie.lewis@contractoumbrella.com.