The skills shortage is a major challenge for UK businesses, as it lowers productivity and profits.
The British economy is still struggling to recover from the pandemic, according to the latest data. The economy is 0.5% smaller than it was before the pandemic, and experts say that the main reasons for this are the lingering effects of the pandemic and the tighter post-Brexit immigration rules.
The ongoing skills shortage is a major challenge for businesses, but it is also an opportunity for those who are proactive. Here are our top tips for businesses facing labor challenges in 2023.
UK industries with skills shortages
To begin, it is important to identify the industries in the UK that are most affected by the skills shortage. A recent study found that the country’s biggest shortfalls are in a variety of sectors, including:
- Transport and logistics: This sector is facing a shortage of skilled drivers, warehouse workers, and customs agents.
- Hospitality: This sector is facing a shortage of skilled chefs, waiters, and hotel staff.
- Manufacturing and construction: These sectors are facing a shortage of skilled engineers, carpenters, and electricians.
Invest in your workforce for long-term success
Recruiting top talent is a time-sensitive process, as there is only a limited pool of qualified candidates available. A recruitment agency can help you find the right people quickly and efficiently.
Recruitment agencies have wider referral networks as a third party, allowing them to identify candidates with the necessary work experience. They also focus on different industries, so you can locate an agency that meets your specific requirements.
Recruitment agencies can help you find new talent with the core skills to help your company reach its goals.
Invest in your workforce to boost your business
Often, the skills you need are already present in your workforce, but they may not be fully utilized. By upskilling your employees, you can give them the skills they need to take on new challenges and responsibilities.
Upskilling your workforce can be a great way to improve your business and the skills of your employees. By following these tips, you can make the upskilling process a success.
Organizations with more resources may even pay for their employees to enroll in external training programs offered by universities or colleges. This personalized investment in your workforce can build loyalty and even provide a valuable public relations opportunity.
Utilise Apprenticeship to train and upskill your workforce
Apprenticeships can be a long-term solution to skills shortages. They can help employers reach a wider talent pool and offer prospective employees a strong, high-quality alternative to the traditional university degree.
A multi-pronged approach to recruitment that includes building relationships with educational institutions can help businesses find top talent at the source.
Boost your marketing reach and visibility
A strong marketing strategy can make your company more attractive to prospective employees. This is because it can help to increase brand awareness and generate interest in your company. You can partner with local educational institutions, promote your job openings on social media and in the local press, and track your results to improve your marketing strategy and attract future employees.
Sources
GDP – data tables – Office for National Statistics (ons.gov.uk)
Immigration – Winckworth Sherwood LLP (wslaw.co.uk)
UK employers struggle with worst labour shortage since 1997 | Business | The Guardian
