Insights from the Latest KPMG and REC UK Report on Jobs: Emerging Trends and the Benefits of Working with Red Rock Partnership

The UK job market in October and November 2024 presents a landscape of both opportunity and challenge. As we enter the final months of the year, businesses and job seekers alike are navigating evolving trends shaped by economic shifts, skill shortages, and more. At Red Rock Partnership, we’ve been closely monitoring these developments, and we’d like to share our insights on current recruitment trends to help both candidates and clients stay ahead of the curve.

Growth in Temporary and Contract Roles

One of the most notable trends in the current job market is the surge in temporary and contract positions. This shift reflects the ongoing uncertainty in the broader economy, with businesses increasingly favouring flexible staffing solutions. According to the?Recruitment & Employment Confederation?(REC), temporary employment in the UK has remained resilient, with an increase in demand for contractors across sectors like logistics, IT, and healthcare.

?For businesses, the ability to scale up quickly in response to market fluctuations without committing to permanent hires is a significant advantage. For job seekers, temporary and contract roles offer a way to gain experience, expand networks, and maintain flexibility—especially as many professionals prefer shorter-term engagements over permanent positions due to the current economic climate.

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Skills Shortages Across Key Industries

Skills shortages continue to affect multiple sectors in the UK. From tech to healthcare and engineering, businesses are struggling to find qualified candidates to fill their vacancies. In fact,?Tech Nation's?2024 report highlighted that 83% of UK tech businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit tech talent. Similarly,?NHS Digital?reports that the healthcare sector is facing a shortage of skilled professionals, particularly in nursing and allied health roles.

?The?KPMG and REC UK Jobs Report?further underscores this issue, noting that the demand for skilled professionals in sectors such as engineering, technology, and healthcare has outpaced the available talent pool. This has led to a competitive recruitment market where employers are willing to offer better pay, enhanced benefits, and more flexible working conditions to attract top talent. For candidates, this means there are opportunities for those with in-demand skills, but it also signals the need for continuous professional development and upskilling.

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The Rise of Hybrid and Remote Work

?Hybrid and remote working arrangements continue to be a dominant feature of the job market, with many employees still prioritising flexibility. In fact, a recent?CIPD?survey found that 52% of UK employers are offering flexible working options, with remote working remaining a key consideration for candidates. As organisations increasingly embrace digital transformation, the need for remote and hybrid roles across various industries, including tech, finance, and customer service, remains strong.

?Employers that offer flexibility are likely to attract a wider pool of talent, and this has made recruitment more globalised—talented professionals are no longer limited to a specific geographical location. On the other hand, candidates need to be more adaptable, as employers look for individuals who can thrive in hybrid work environments while maintaining high performance.

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Increased Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

?The importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) continues to shape recruitment strategies. More businesses are making public commitments to improve diversity in their workforces, and this is reflected in their hiring practices. A?Harvard Business Review?study found that diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform their less diverse counterparts, which is driving companies to prioritise diversity in recruitment.

?For candidates, this trend highlights the growing importance of DEI when considering employers. Organisations that demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity are more attractive, not only because of their social responsibility but because they tend to foster more supportive and collaborative work environments. Job seekers should look for companies that align with their values and offer a culture that embraces diversity.

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The Impact of Economic Trends on Recruitment

?According to the latest?KPMG and REC UK Jobs Report, the overall hiring sentiment in the UK has been influenced by both domestic and global economic factors, including inflation, cost-of-living pressures, and broader uncertainty in key markets. Despite these challenges, recruitment activity remains strong in sectors where there is high demand, such as technology, healthcare, and logistics.

?However, the report also notes a slowdown in hiring within industries sensitive to economic fluctuations, such as retail and hospitality. In these sectors, businesses are taking a more cautious approach to recruitment, often opting for temporary or contract workers to navigate uncertain conditions. For job seekers, this means adapting to market demands and being open to opportunities in growing sectors or with companies offering flexible working arrangements.

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Internships and Entry-Level Opportunities: A Growing Need

?As businesses face financial pressures, many question the value of investing in interns, especially short-term ones. However, the potential benefits of flexible internships to both business and economy cannot be overlooked. According to?Prospects, a graduate career specialist, 30% of young people searched for an internship in the past 12 months, with 17% successfully completing one. Despite a decline in internship opportunities—down 6.4% from pre-pandemic levels—there remains a clear demand from young people looking to build careers. Many sectors, particularly in professional, scientific, and technical fields, have expanded their internship offerings, demonstrating a strong appetite to nurture talent.

This increase in internships is essential, as it creates a pipeline of skilled, motivated individuals that support economic growth. Investing in internships not only helps young professionals gain experience but also strengthens employer branding and fills critical skill gaps. Companies that provide such opportunities position themselves as leaders, not only in their industry but also in contributing to the workforce of tomorrow.

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The Benefits of Working with a Recruitment Agency

?Navigating the current job market—whether as a candidate or an employer—can be complex. The volume of available job opportunities, changing skill requirements, and fluctuating market conditions mean that having the right support can make all the difference.

For candidates, working with a recruitment agency like Red Rock Partnership offers access to a wide range of opportunities, many of which may not be advertised publicly. Our expert consultants can provide valuable career advice, help with CV writing, and offer insights into market trends and salary benchmarks. We also specialise in matching candidates with roles that fit their skills, ambitions, and values, ensuring that job seekers are not just finding jobs, but advancing their careers.

For employers, partnering with a recruitment agency helps streamline the hiring process. Red Rock Partnership’s deep market knowledge and extensive candidate network enable us to quickly identify top talent, even in hard-to-fill sectors. We handle the time-consuming aspects of recruitment, such as screening, interviewing, and salary negotiations, so that businesses can focus on what they do best.

Why Choose Red Rock Partnership?

At Red Rock Partnership, we understand that recruitment is about more than just filling a vacancy—it’s about making meaningful connections between candidates and clients. Whether you’re a business looking for the right talent or a job seeker aiming to take the next step in your career, we’re here to help.?

With a team of experienced recruiters who specialise across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, engineering, and more, we offer a bespoke recruitment service tailored to your unique needs. Our consultants are committed to providing exceptional service, building long-term relationships with both candidates and clients, and delivering results that align with your goals. As the UK job market continues to evolve, partnering with a trusted recruitment agency like Red Rock Partnership ensures that you have the expertise, insights, and support needed to stay ahead of the competition.

For more information about how we can assist with your recruitment needs or job search, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.

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