Covid-19 Recruitment
Insights & Data

Coronavirus has changed how the world operates and it has shaken up the jobs market in unprecedented ways. As an independent source for recruitment data and insights we want to make sure you have access to updated information and advice.

Applications increase by 16%, reaching the second highest level of 2021

Applications were 108% above the 2020 monthly average in May, not quite reaching March’s meteoric figures but a healthy overall figure. However, it was a bumpy ride across the month, with peaks and troughs hinting at instability. Definitely one to watch as several industries face skills shortages.

Jobs soar to 219% above the 2020 monthly average

Jobs are booming – a great sign for the economy as a whole and possibly a sign that the economic recovery is being achieved at a greater pace than previously predicted. May saw the most vacancies advertised since before the pandemic and the speed at which they are increasing hasn’t occurred for many years.

Jobs increase by fastest rate in 23 years but certain industries face skill shortages

A KPMG/REC report has added to the growing evidence that the economy is recovering at a far greater rate than forecast but it also found that a number of sectors (in particular Hospitality) are struggling to fill vacancies. With the job market booming, these gaps must be addressed.

“May has seen the jobs market strengthen yet again, with jobs positively soaring. It is a strong indicator that the economy is recovering at a faster rate than predicted. However, the skills shortages in areas such as Hospitality need to be addressed. Some shortages were being experienced pre-pandemic, some have been caused by Covid, and others can be attributed to Brexit. For the economy to continue to recover, those gaps must be filled.”

Applications increased by 16% compared to April, rising to 108% above the 2020 monthly average.

Jobs increased by 31% compared to April, rising to 219% above the 2020 monthly average.  

The highest percentage of jobs posted was in Education (19%).

The highest percentage of applications received was in Education (13%).

The average number of applications per job in May was 11.

The highest number of applications per job was in Finance (104).

The lowest number of applications per job was in Health & Nursing (2).

Most jobs were posted on a Friday but the majority of applications were received on a Tuesday.

Latest Recruitment Data

Job Posting and Application data and trends recorded on WaveTrackR

Insights & Resources

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