Q3 2024 UK labour market as businesses navigate economic growth has been tempered by persistent recruitment challenges. Here’s a summary of the key trends shaping recruitment, productivity, and workplace wellbeing in the UK.
Labour Market Overview: Stabilisation Amid Slower Hiring Growth
The UK labour market has shown a steady increase in candidate activity, although with fewer vacancies than before, indicating signs of stabilisation. Totaljobs’ data reveals that 89% of companies actively recruited in Q3; however, only 28% increased hiring efforts, a decrease from previous quarters. Despite a mild rise in economic confidence, many businesses remain cautious, likely waiting for clarity from the forthcoming Autumn Budget.
Top Recruitment Challenges: Skill Shortages and Resource Constraints
Recruiters face considerable challenges that prolong the hiring process. The top five hurdles include:
Skills shortage (64%)
Time pressure to fill roles (55%)
Salary alignment (53%)
Flexible work expectations (53%)
Limited use of CV databases (46%)
These factors have led to an extended average hiring period of 4.8 weeks, signalling the need for more efficient talent sourcing and streamlined recruitment processes.
Q4 2024 Outlook: Focus on Skilled and Temporary Talent
Only 23% of employers plan to increase hiring in Q4, with many prioritising skill specific recruitment over high volumes. Demand remains strong for customer service, technical, and soft skills as companies prepare to meet yearend targets.
The Productivity Conundrum: A Cycle of Low Output
A shortage of skilled hires has led to productivity challenges across many sectors. Low productivity has, in turn, impacted employee morale, with rising sick days and turnover. In fact, 41% more sick days have been taken over the past three years, and 25% of staff turnover has been attributed to burnout. Many businesses are now dependent on temporary staff to fill gaps, while long term projects experience delays.
Strategies to Address Productivity Challenges
To address these productivity concerns and enhance employee wellbeing, companies are implementing several strategies:
WorkLife Balance: Flexible and hybrid working models are becoming essential, with 30% of companies already offering them to improve employee satisfaction.
Clear Communication: Lack of clarity from leadership has been identified as a productivity obstacle, prompting 27% of HR leaders to emphasise the need for transparent communication.
Recognition and Rewards: Recognising achievements is key to motivation, and 26% of employers are actively investing in employee recognition and rewards.
Health & Wellness Initiatives: Enhanced health benefits, such as private insurance, are increasingly popular, with 20% of companies expanding wellness initiatives to attract and retain talent.
Learning & Development (L&D): Over 45% of job adverts now highlight L&D opportunities, underscoring the importance of professional growth in retention and employee engagement.
Conclusion: Bridging Gaps for a Resilient Workforce
As the labour market stabilises, businesses are encouraged to take advantage of talent opportunities by creating supportive work environments and focusing on skill based hiring. Red Recruit Global remains a key partner in navigating these recruitment challenges, providing tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the UK workforce.