With the 2022 Federal Election done and dusted, and EOFY around the corner, we thought it an opportune time this month to take a moment to reflect on some employment statistics and what employers want.
An increase in job ads
In April, nationally, job advertisements increased by 8% (that’s 23,100 jobs). This saw job ads sit at their highest level since January 2006. For the construction industry, the job vacancies change from February 2020 to February 2022 saw an increase of 112%.
So, more jobs means everything is great – right?
As we’ve discussed in a couple of our recent blogs, more jobs + fewer candidates = businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to find skilled people to fill those positions. In fact, according to ManpowerGroup, 72% of construction employers are reporting difficulty in finding the required skills.
What are the top 5 soft skills construction employers seek?
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- Reliability & self-discipline
- Collaboration & teamwork
- Resilience & adaptability
- Creativity & originality
- Reasoning & problem solving
What about job movement?
According to ABS data, the number of people who changed construction jobs in the past 12 months was 109,918.
In our December 2021 blog ‘Year in Review – Job Market Statistics’, PwC reported from their sample survey that 38% of workers planned to leave their current employer during 2022. So, with COVID restrictions over, more businesses reopening, and things getting somewhat back to normal, the ‘Great Resignation’ seems to have its wheels in motion when looking at the ABS stats. Nationally, for the year ending February 2022, people who changed jobs per se had the highest annual job mobility rate since 2012. And the share of those who changed jobs remains highest for Professionals, at 22%.
What are the top 3 fastest-growing jobs in the construction industry?
According to Seek, these are:
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- Health, Safety & Environment = job ad growth of 38.6%
- Planning & Scheduling = job ad growth of 10.5%
- Surveying = job ad growth of 10%
So, how do you make the best decision?
Amongst all this data and times of change, it can be difficult to know how to approach a change in construction jobs. Our advice is before you do anything, it’s important to clarify your thoughts and note down why you are considering a change. Once you have, consider whether your employer can address them satisfactorily. If you feel they can, speak to them about it.
In the current job market, most employers are far more willing to listen and resolve issues for their employees. Many employers are also making counter-offers, and if you’re willing to consider a counter-offer, then chances are you’re not ready to leave. Figuring all this out before you apply for another job can save a lot of time on all fronts. And importantly, if you feel you might stay, prevent you from potentially damaging your relationship with your employer by not speaking to them first.
Conclusion
As always, we are here for you to chat with – please don’t hesitate to reach out for advice or to discuss your ideal role.
Otherwise, visit our news and advice page where we cover many topics such as why it’s important to be job-ready, how to respond to behavioural interview questions, how to choose the right job offer, negotiating salary during the interview process – just to name a few.
(Sources: National Skills Commission; ABS; ManpowerGroup; Seek – 2022; PwC 2021)
Looking for your next construction job? Search our current construction roles here, or to chat to our team about securing your next opportunity, get in contact with us through our Contact Us page.
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