Fewer vacancies step up pressure in the jobs market
The number of vacant jobs declined while the number of people available for work increased
Fierce competition for skilled workers is said to have pushed up starting salaries for candidates
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The jobs market grew even more competitive at the end of last year as the number of vacant jobs declined while the number of people available for work increased.
Hiring activity for both permanent and temporary roles fell at a weaker rate month-on-month in December, according to data from KPMG and the Recruitment & Employment Confederation, but the number of job vacancies was down for the third time in the past four months.
The hiring decline was accompanied by a continued rise in the number of available workers. Survey respondents said a slowdown in hiring had pushed up the supply of labour in the market.
Meanwhile, businesses were affected by a fall in customer numbers and consumer spending, according to an analysis by
