Loading up a search engine today I stumbled across an article with the title “10 safest jobs in a recession” . The title alone was enough to catch my interest – are there any safe jobs in a recession these days? Reading through the article it highlighted that UK unemployment has hit its highest mark in over a decade (2.38 million people). This cannot be surprising news to anyone – I think most people have been affected directly or through friends, family or colleagues by the unstable economy.
So what are the safe jobs/sectors in which to work? The article highlighted roles in Education, Health and Social Care, Internal Audit, Insurance, Energy and IT. I wouldn’t disagree with this but the story does have a slightly different focus when you look specifically at Knowledge and Information Management roles.
Over the past few months TFPL have seen an improvement in our market compared to the sluggish months of January and February but there are still lots of people applying for seemingly fewer opportunities. People I am speaking with on a daily basis are having to face up to the harsh reality that despite solid experience and a strong breadth of skills and experience it can take longer than they hoped to find their next role. As we approach the summer inevitably some are having to make the decisions to re-apply their skills outside of the sector.
What does the future look like for someone looking for work? On a daily basis I struggle with this, some weeks look more optimistic than others and as a Recruiter finding the balance between “glass half empty/glass half full” can be a challenge. I do know that the skills and competencies I come across daily are still valued by organisations, they play an important part in helping organisations grow (both financially and strategically) and there will always be a need for them.
My advice to those looking for work is stick with it, utilise your situation as a time to try something different, value your network and continue to build and develop it, be flexible and stay positive. The worst is behind us.
Luisa Jefford
Director of Recruitment
Comments