Hays Human Resources - October 2008

Hotspots

There is a strong demand for professionals with seven to ten years' experience across the whole spectrum of human resources roles, including learning and development, organisation development, compensation and benefits, talent management, performance management, and recruitment. Learning and development is a particular hotspot of demand as employers seek to retain existing talent.

In the current economic climate, demand is centred at the mid level rather than the senior level, and candidates with strong HR generalist skills are needed across the board.

New investment and business expansion within the commerce and industry sector have created additional demand for professionals with experience in new setups.

The coming quarter

While hiring activity overall is expected to be slower than last quarter, hiring within the banking sector for both temporary and contract roles is on the rise. Candidates will find it easiest to secure work within their industry of specialisation.

As ever, good cultural fit between candidate and employer is of vital importance.

Executive Recruitment

Executive recruitment has slowed however this has been largely replaced by recruitment at the middle management level.

Salaries

No major salary movements are expected over the coming quarter however candidates will find a vast range of salary package offerings between industries.

Candidate Trends

Candidates are tending to stay within their industry specialty in the interests of greater job security and the promise of forthcoming bonus payments.