The term ‘Skills shortage’ is often applied to the UK job market. And many, unsurprisingly, view this as a problem – particularly business owners looking to recruit staff.
So, what’s caused it? How will it affect job hunters? You may not expect it, but it could benefit businesses and applicants alike.
Let’s explore the topic to pinpoint why.
Why Is There a Skills Shortage?
Just why is there a skills shortage in the UK? Well, it tends to differ with each sector. Agriculture, for example, has suffered a decline in popularity among young job hunters.
This is largely because younger generations are less drawn to the dull and dirty work that it can often involve. Also, roles within the sector are usually seasonal – and this deters many domestic workers.
The drop of sterling against the Euro, twinned with Brexit uncertainty, has also led to a shortage in skilled EU migrant workers. This issue also affects “dangerous” or “dull” industries like nursing, cleaning, plumbing and factory work.
Fewer Brits undertake apprenticeships and qualifications in these areas, while workers from EU states are also turning away from them.
These are the two main reasons for the UK skills shortage within vocational fields.
How Could It Benefit Job Seekers?
Last year, roughly three quarters of service-providing firms declared that they were struggling to find skilled workers.
Manufacturing firms have also seen a reduction in qualified applicants. Though this isn’t ideal, it could benefit job seekers.
Why? It’s simple: if you develop in-demand skills, you’ll stand a better chance of being offered a role. After all, you’ll have fewer skilled candidates to compete against.
If you train to high proficiency, potential employers will likely put more money, time and effort into your job development.
You may very well progress within your chosen industry as a result. Why not use the UK skills shortage to your advantage, therefore?
Build skills in a relevant sector, and you could enhance not just your employability, but also your career prospects.
If you gain sufficient training, you may enhance your employability.
Where Can I Find Training Opportunities?
Training opportunities can be surprisingly easy to find – so long as you know where to look. Why don’t you start by visiting your local recruitment centre?
This could be especially useful if you have an idea in mind but aren’t sure about how to get there. Recruitment professionals are experts in career paths.
And so, you’ll be able to work together to decide on the best route to take towards your desired job. A specialist could also help you to secure and prepare for a suitable apprenticeship or training course.
If you want to go into hairdressing, for example, they can help you to identify the tools and equipment that you’ll need. They may also recommend you to a product innovator like Capital Hair and Beauty.
Seek useful support services, and you could find a training course – and career – to suit you. Choose a vocation that has a high-demand for skilled workers, and you might raise your appeal for employers.‘Skills shortage’ may sound like a worrying phrase – but it doesn’t have to be. People that develop skills within struggling sectors could heighten their career prospects. What’s to stop you from being one of them?
