It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Matthew Gregory, Education Director at The Protocol Group.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has recently published its latest labour market statistics. Between September and November 2024, the number of job vacancies in the UK fell by 31,000 to 818,000. This can be attributed to the added financial burden placed on employers in the recent Budget.
Economic forecast
However, the UK economy has shown resilience, with GDP projected to grow by up to 1.4% in 2025. This will provide a more predictable environment for businesses and could encourage investment and expansion, which in turn will create jobs.
AI-driven Recruitment
Employers will rely more on AI and HR technology for hiring, such as automated screening, AI interviews, and predictive analytics to identify the best candidates. This will streamline processes but may also raise concerns about bias and transparency.
Shifts in Candidate Expectations
The hybrid/remote work trend will remain strong, with job seekers expecting flexible working options. Employers who do not offer such models may struggle to attract top talent.
Wage growth continues to outpace inflation. Competitive salaries, bonuses, and work-life balance policies will become decisive factors in attracting talent.
Candidates are increasingly prioritizing personal growth, pushing employers to provide better upskilling, learning opportunities, and career pathways.
