BS Technology and Change Mid-year - Report - Page 3
TECHNOLOGY & CHANGE | RECRUITMENT MARKET UPDATE 2024
BARCLAYSIMPSON.COM
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Market overview
In 2024, the UK tech market is seeing a dynamic
shift, especially in recruitment and digital
transformation. Major companies like Microsoft,
Amazon and SAP are at the forefront of this
transformation, actively expanding their teams to
support growing cloud and AI demands.
Recruitment trends indicate a heightened focus on
data-driven hiring, with an emphasis on skills rather
than traditional qualifications, a strategy that aligns
with the rapidly evolving tech landscape. There
has also been an uptick in demand for tech talent
in London, despite an overall cautious approach
to hiring in the broader UK market due to ongoing
economic uncertainties. The gig economy continues
to gain traction, with more companies adopting
flexible work models, driven by the need for agility
and cost-effectiveness.
The Great Resignation is still influencing recruitment
strategies, as companies are working harder to
attract and retain top talent by offering competitive
salaries, remote work options, and clear career
progression paths. Additionally, the entry of Gen
Z into the workforce is pushing companies to
modernise their recruitment processes, making them
more digital and engaging to meet the expectations
of this tech-savvy generation.
Meanwhile, the interim jobs market is more subdued.
A combination of IR35 reforms, economic challenges
and recent political uncertainty continues to suppress
demand for contractors and temporary resource. In
fact, many employers are seeking to cut costs in the
current climate by shedding interim staff or offering
them lower-paying permanent positions. These
roles wouldn't usually be attractive to contractors,
but we are seeing a notable increase in candidates
considering and accepting permanent placements
due to a lack of day-rate opportunities.
