Scottish workers most career-confident in the UK

According to a new report, employees across Scotland are the most career-confident compared to the rest of the UK.

The Robert Half Jobs Confidence Index (JCI) shows that 69% of Scottish workers are confident in their job prospects over the next six months; this is above the national average of 60% and the highest level recorded across the UK.

Another 61% of Scottish staff indicated that they are confident in their career potential and ability to progress in their job over the next five years.

Reggie McMahon, Branch Director, Scotland, at Robert Half, said, “Business growth prospects across Scotland are high, largely driven by fast-growth sectors such as renewables and technology. This is arguably one of the core drivers of the high level of confidence being seen in the labour market compared to the rest of the UK.

“However, it’s no secret that some of our largest sectors are also those that are facing significant skills shortages. When we combine this with the high confidence levels in the workforce, it’s perhaps no surprise that Scottish staff are looking for greater pay rises than the majority of the UK.

“For firms across the country, though, salary increases on this scale aren’t going to be feasible, particularly for the large number of SME businesses that underpin our economy. To combat this scenario, a more robust talent attraction package that showcases more than just pay prospects is required.

“Offering additional perks and benefits packages or clear training options, for example, will appeal to new recruits and existing staff. Those employers that strike the right balance will be best placed to hire core skills in the months ahead.”

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