The survey of 600 employers, released this morning, also revealed that 80% of employers re-advertised a role after the initial job advert failed, while almost a quarter (24%) resorted to lowering the role requirements.

The survey also showed that the skills shortages continue to be a major concern among employers, with nearly half (49%) anticipating shortage of candidates for permanent roles over the next three months.

Meanwhile, more than a third (34%) of employers claim they have no spare capacity and would need to take on new staff if demand increased, while a further 46% have just “a little” capacity and might recruit if their workload grew.

The survey also reveals:

• One fifth (22%) of employers plan to increase permanent headcount in the short term (the next three months) and medium term (the next four to 12 months).
• Construction, engineering/technical and health/social care are the three sectors where employers most expect a shortage of candidates for permanent roles.
• Close to one fifth (19%) of employers plan to increase temporary agency headcount in the medium term, and 12% plan to do so in the short term. Engineering/technical, hospitality and drivers are the top three sectors in which employers expect a shortage of suitable temporary agency workers.

• What are your views on this issue? Email us at [email protected] or tweet us below to tell us your thoughts. We will run comments online in a round-up at the end of the week.

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