The Randstad 2009 Employment Trends Report, launched today, serves as a reality check as employees across the country don’t seem to realise the impact the weakened economy is having on their job.

Randstad CEO Debra Loveridge says while it is good for people to be optimistic, they also need to be realistic in light of the economy.

“The job market is tight. The Randstad 2009 Employment Trends Report reveals that organisations throughout the Asia Pacific region are primarily concerned in 2009 with managing internal change, productivity and people costs. Last year these salary expectations would have been viable, but things have changed dramatically in a short space of time. A year ago only 8 per cent of organisations were looking to cut numbers – this has almost trebled for 2009,” she says.

The report also indicates challenging times ahead for members of Generation Y entering full-time employment for the first time, with 38 per cent of employers stating this generation is the most difficult to retain, possibly making them a less attractive prospective employee.

In addition, employers are trending away from recruiting for full-time positions towards contract and part-time employment to fill short term demand. Jobseekers should look at part time roles that are on offer, which are typically in higher demand when there is a lull in the economy.

“Twenty-one per cent of employers report that non-competitive salaries are contributing to their inability to secure the right talent, so jobseekers need to keep in mind that employers are simply unable to compete with dollars as aggressively as they were last year,” says Ms Loveridge.

“With 30 per cent of workers expecting a pay rise of between five to nine per cent, it is clear that people are optimistic, but people should be flexible with their expectations.”

Ms Loveridge says jobseekers should be open to alternative incentives in the interview room, and during a pay review, where flexible work arrangements, recreation allowances and other incentives can replace an increase in pay.

“It has never been more important for workers to make their value known in the workplace – not only to secure your chances of a pay increase, incentive or promotion, but to ensure you have a secure place when your organisation is considering a restructure,” says Ms Loveridge.

How workers in can buck the trend:-

• Be prepared to negotiate beyond money, with other incentives such as ‘free leave days’ or flexible work options.
• Make your value known – Communicate your successes where you have generated business and provide your manager with tangible examples of how you have contributed to the business.
• Be humble – Last year, Gen Y graduates could demand and expect more with little experience. People now need to realise that employers are looking for evidence of long-term dedication, and are not as willing to pay as much for candidates with little practical experience. Expect to be paid fairly, at market value.
• Part-time can pay – Jobseekers should explore part-time, contract or temporary vacancies, as employers continue to need manpower, but cannot commit to full-time employment when there is an economic downturn.
• Network – Jobseekers should expand their professional network by joining up with professional associations or online groups and networks. Always focus on building relationships – never burn bridges.
• The hard yards – During the last recession, in the early 80’s late 90’s, people worked longer hours to prove their worth within their organisation. Be prepared, if your industry is under pressure, to do the same. Sit down with your family and talk about any changes in work commitment, and prepare yourself to make certain sacrifices occasionally.

For a copy of the Randstad 2009 Employment Trends Report, please email communications@randstad.com.au

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Debra Loveridge, CEO of Randstad is available for interviews.
Online and printed copies of the Report and Fact Sheets are available.
Photography is available on request.

Media inquiries:
Natalie Waldman, Group Communications Manager
Randstad
Tel: 02 8258 9625 or 0434 602 131
Email: nwaldman@randstad.com.au