Economic upturn is creating more jobs, says Blue Eskimo
Learning recruitment specialist Blue Eskimo says that the improving economy is driving greater demand for learning professionals in both permanent and contract roles.
With recent news that the UK economy has grown by 3.2% in the second quarter of 2014, compared to the same time last year, it looks as though economic growth is stabilising. The services sector (almost 80% of the economy) grew by 1%.
For learning professionals, this is great news, says Blue Eskimo’s Nick Bate. “Recruitment is typically ahead of the financial curve and is a great economic indicator,” says Bate. “As we came towards the end of 2013, training companies and learning departments started taking on more people – or replacing people who’d moved on. This year there’s been a significant recruitment drive across the board.”
According to Blue Eskimo, both permanent and contracting opportunities are on the rise.
“There are a lot of great opportunities out there,” says Bate, “though competition is strong – there’s something of a skills gap in many areas, so really talented people are in demand.”
Blue Eskimo’s salary and work survey of 2013 showed that 63% of people were looking for a new job in 2014. Bate believes that for many, 2014 could be a great year for change. “Lots of the roles we’re recruiting for could be a great step forward for someone’s career,” he says. “Not just ‘more of the same’, but real career advancement. And for those thinking of moving into contracting, the work is definitely out there.”
Blue Eskimo will be exhibiting at Learning Live, 10–11 September, at 155 Bishopsgate, London. Learning Live is a key event, a must for all trainers, e-learning professionals, training managers, L&D managers and HR managers.
“We’re exhibiting at Learning Live,” says Bate. “Learning professionals can come along for a chat, find out what kind of jobs are on offer – and decide if 2014 could be their year of change.”