The national unemployment rate dropped to 3.8 percent in February 2019 with 20,000 new jobs created. If the current movement in the job market is any indicator, employment rates will continue to remain strong in 2019. If you’re looking for the job of your dreams, here are four job trends we think you should be paying attention to.
1. It’s a job seeker’s market
The job market is currently a candidate-driven one. Approximately 60 percent of employers are struggling to find people to fill their open positions – these employers indicate these roles remain vacant for 12 weeks or longer. If experienced talent isn’t available, employers are often willing to hire candidates who have strong potential. Candidates who are able to demonstrate to employers they possess a passion for the industry, along with the personal attributes needed for the job, often have a good chance at being hired despite their lack of experience.
2. AI-enhanced job searches
Artificial intelligence is maturing by leaps and bounds, steadily making inroads in a variety of industries. This year, job seekers can expect to see AI continue to shape the search process. Job websites and listings will integrate AI’s superior learning capacities to go a step beyond generating traditional job postings. Instead, you can expect to see customized recommendations matching your interests and skills.
3. Technology-driven hiring process
Companies have been using technology in the hiring process for some time now and, going forward, we expect this to increase. Due to the number of applications the average hiring manager or recruiter sees, many will turn to technology to help screen candidates.
- Prior to being interviewed, many candidates are being asked to take personality, writing, or functional tests.
- Employers are spending more time using social media to vet candidates or to get to know them better.
- Companies are using mobile to attract younger Millennials and Gen Z candidates.
The reality is not even the most qualified candidate is a good match for every organizational culture and vice versa. Technology can be a time-saving measure for everyone.
4. Employers facing a new type of talent shortage
For a few years now employers have faced talent shortages in various industries, including healthcare, technology, and a number of service-based sectors. This year, employers are reported to be facing an unexpected type of gap. In 2019, employers are seeking soft skills such as leadership, oral communication, people management, and time management in the candidates they screen. Many technical skills can be taught, but most soft skills cannot. Employers desperately want people who have the right attributes. Right now, that means soft skills.
This year should be an interesting one for the job market. If you’d like to learn more about the latest job trends and tips, we invite you to visit our blog. Any questions? Feel free to contact us today!
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Who is NEXTAFF? We are locally owned and operated staffing offices devoted to our communities, clients, and candidates throughout the United States. For more job tips and ideas, contact us. We are always hiring, so if you or someone you know is looking for work, check out our job board below and apply today! We are able to service all your staffing agency needs with local staffing offices in Sacramento-CA, Sonoma County-CA, Des Moines-IA, Raleigh-NC, Shawnee-KS, Topeka-KS, Detroit-MI, Kansas City-MO, Gulf Coast-MS, Phoenix-AZ, Miami-FL, Harrisburg-PA, and Jackson-TN.
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