The UK market in 2023 has been described as unsteady, unsettled, and uncertain—terms echoing through my discussions. So let's shift our focus forward from the past year and explore the anticipated major recruitment trends for 2024.
Contingent Workforce Ascendancy:
- In 2023, the demand for contingent labour skyrocketed. At
PageGroup
we saw a surge in temp placements which outperformed permanent hires compared to the previous year.
- McKinsey's report reveals that 70% of Executives are gearing up to hire more contingent workers in 2024, sparking a contingent talent battleground.
- At
Page Outsourcing
, we’re seeing a notable demand for innovative contingent workforce programs and the necessary technology for a single source of truth. For those with an existing MSP, it's prime time to elevate the program and develop the contractor value proposition - complacency might mean missing out on top talent.
AI Integration for Intelligent Hiring:
- Throughout 2023, AI was a hot topic in every discussion. It was a year of learning about its capabilities and applications—ChatGPT became a favourite playground. (I recommend a book by
Mustafa Suleyman
called The Coming Wave if you feel like you’re behind)
-
LinkedIn
's Future of Work report forecasts a 65% shift in required skills by 2030 due to AI's rapid development in the workplace.
- In 2024, the focus is on harnessing AI to enhance individual and business efficiency. For talent acquisition, automation should take the lead, allowing more time for the human and strategic aspects of hiring.
- Consideration for an intelligent technology ecosystem is crucial—consolidating HR and recruitment software into one cohesive system. At
Page Outsourcing
, AI recruitment tools, including sourcing, screening, and market data, are at your disposal, alongside advice and implementation of cutting-edge technology for talent management.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Evolution:
- Progress in DE&I has been substantial, but the spotlight in 2024 shifts to the holistic recruitment process, going beyond diverse shortlists. Key steps for 2024 include: Growing the business EVP by building trust and offering support in networks and communities with protected characteristics, conducting a recruitment audit for inclusive practices, establishing employee resource groups or seeking accreditations such as ‘Disability Confident Leader’.
- These advisory services come as part of the package with a
Page Outsourcing
program. We’re proud to be the only recruitment company awarded
Clear Assured
Platinum status. This accolade signifies going above and beyond for candidates, clients, and our employees in DE&I. Our dedicated client solutions team is ready to support your 2024 DE&I journey.
Skills-Based Hiring Spotlight:
- With low unemployment and market inertia continuing, skills-based hiring remains on the agenda. However, many businesses are uncertain about where to start.
- In 2024, it's crucial to keep skills-based hiring as a key strategy, unlocking the potential for a 10X increase in talent pools.
- Page Outsourcing stands ready to support businesses with a skills-based hiring approach, fortified with market data, especially for those on the hunt for significant talent in 2024.
As I reflect on my personal journey in 2023—from the sunny Dubai desert to the leafy cul-de-sac of Oxfordshire—I've traded brunch choices for comparing the price of butter in Tesco and adapted to the unpredictable UK weather (I never have the right coat!). The challenges have been real, but the gains from being home have been immeasurable ??.
Seasons Greetings and Happy New Year! Here's to a joyous and prosperous 2024! Buzz said it would be good ??
