Carley Holmes, Cactus Recruit founder
Businesses face a growing skills shortage in the UK, which is exacerbated by emigration trends and changing workforce needs. Companies must improve their recruitment strategies to attract talent. They should focus on flexible work arrangements, upgrading skills, and commitment to social values.
The CBI reports that the UK has one of the worst skills mismatches among the G7 countries, and this is before considering future skill requirements. This is especially true in manufacturing, marketing, technology, healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry. These sectors face challenges due to automation and digitalisation, which require new skill sets.
The skills gap has been exacerbated by a number of factors, including the retirement of many older workers and the emigration of 517, 000 people in the year 2024. span size=”font-weight 400 ;”>.
To achieve long-term success, your company needs to attract ambitious, skilled and productive employees. Recruiters must develop a strategy based on competitive salaries, flexible work options, training, and commitment to social values.
Competitive Salary
A competitive salary is essential. Employees’ salary expectations are often higher than what employers will offer. Employers should not be stubborn in their salary offer. While applicants must be realistic, they should also be cautious about limiting the amount offered.
Expanding talent pool with flexible work options
Second, adopting remote and flexible working options can increase the talent pool because it attracts candidates from different geographical locations. This approach not only helps to mitigate talent shortages but also promotes work-life harmony and employee satisfaction.
Continuous learning and Upskilling
Third, offer clear career development opportunities and ongoing learning. In the fast-paced tech industry, investing in training programs to develop skills will help you stay competitive. Partnering with educational institutions can help you gain access to the latest knowledge and resources.
Committing yourself to DEI
In your job descriptions and advertisements, you should communicate to employees and consumers the social values that you hold and your commitment to diversity. Organisations that are socially responsible attract employees and consumers alike. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), a commitment that is made by employers, will attract more candidates. A diverse workforce also strengthens your competitiveness. Although DEI is now a hot topic in the culture war, many major corporations still defend their policies due to their proven effectiveness at improving performance.
Avoid gendered language when writing job descriptions and emphasize inclusive values. After viewing an advertisement, candidates and job seekers are likely to visit your website. It is important to have a consistent message across all your communication channels. The HR content on your website, for instance, can provide insight into how it is to work with and why you are different.
Expertise of third parties for negotiating mutually acceptable terms
Finding talent is time-consuming, and it can be a complex process. An external consultant who understands trends, industry benchmarks, and the competitive landscape will help you improve the employee value proposition.
The consultant can, for example, help both the employer and the candidate to clarify and agree upon work arrangements, performance expectations and metrics, as well as non-negotiable conditions.
A consultant with sector expertise, who is a third-party, can offer essential advice and support as a confidential third-party. This includes assisting in the formulation of competitive packages, contracts, training programmes, diversity and inclusion promotion, and employer branding. It is not only easier to find the right talent but it also simplifies a complex and delicate process.
Carley Holmes founded Cactus Recruit in Manchester, UK. The company specializes in recruitment for marketing, technology, and professional services. To learn more about Cactus Recruit’s HR services, visit: https://cactusrecruit.co.uk/about/
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