Jobs Placements Increase In October

Employers continue to raise their hiring expectations this year, spelling good news for ex-military personnel searching for veteran employment opportunities.

The latest figures from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) showed permanent and temporary appointments enjoyed a faster rate of growth in October.

Available vacancies also continued to increase, with companies keen to take on permanent employees in particular. People who secure jobs are also currently benefiting from strong salary growth.

Demand for highly qualified staff remains high, although the availability of permanent candidates fell further last month. Employers may therefore consider widening their nets to find the skills and talent to fill gaps in their workforce.

The construction industry is especially short on qualified individuals, which could hamper recent growth in the sector. The Markit and Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Purchasing Managers' Index recorded a score of 58.8 in October, well above the neutral 50 required to signify growth.

Bernard Brown, partner at KPMG, said construction salaries are soaring due to the lack of available talent. 

"It is clear the industry is suffering from a chronic skills shortage along its entire supply chain, with recruiters struggling to meet demand for roles ranging from architects to construction workers," he explained.

Mr Brown added that the problem is likely to have an impact on Britain's housing sector, which is already in the midst of a crisis. Project delays and increases in building costs could become more prominent.

He said building firms are eagerly awaiting the Autumn Statement to see what measures the government is introducing to tackle these issues.