A positive outlook for the job market in the Middle East in 2011
Employee numbers and salaries are on the rise, according to the research undertaken by Michael Page, pointing to a positive year ahead for both employers and job seekers in the Middle East region.
More than 4,500 of Michael Page’s clients were surveyed at the end of 2010 to determine headcount and salary trends for the year, and their plans for 2011. The organisations included global multinationals, local holding groups, government and semi-government industries and medium sized businesses.
Result highlights
Significant results showed that:
- 76% of businesses retained or increased headcount in 2010
- Further growth is expected in 2011, with 61% of businesses planning to increase their headcount
- 55% of businesses increased employee salaries with average increases of 3% in 2010
- 43% of businesses expect to increase salaries within the next six months
- Companies recognise the importance of employee retention, with 94% placing the same or more emphasis on such strategies in comparison to 2010
- Most are focussing employee retention efforts on developing strong leadership and clear communication strategies, followed by career development & planning and training & development
The majority of the organisations surveyed indicated that they expected to see the biggest rise in headcount within their operational functions (64%), followed by sales (32%). A small percentage are looking to increase employee numbers within administrative and back office departments.
Michael Page Middle East comments
“We are already seeing a more competitive job market with greater competition for available candidates and greater retention challenges for existing employers. Clients need to adopt proactive recruitment strategies to source the best talent, including; local and global advertising, database search, global headhunting, careers fairs and online campaigns.”
“Whilst demand for quality candidates is increasing it will still be the candidates who differentiate themselves at interview that secure the best jobs. This means applying for roles they are suitably qualified for, being well prepared in terms of company and industry research, being able to provide strong examples of their achievements within the key selection criteria and a clear indication that they understand and are ready for the challenges of the role,” according to Matt Gribble, Managing Director of Michael Page Middle East.
For more information on how we can help with your career move or recruitment strategy in 2011, please contact your local Michael Page team.
Question asked and their respective answers are below.
Which area most closely reflects your current role?
How have your employee numbers changed over the last 12 months?
How will your employee numbers change over the next 12 months?
Which business function will your company do the most recruitment for in the next six months?
How have salaries moved in your company over the last 12 months?
If salaries have moved, by how much have they changed?
Do you expect to increase employee salaries in the next six months?
How much emphasis is your company placing on employee retention strategies in comparison to last year?
In order of priority, please rank the retention strategies your company will be focusing on over the next six months. 1= highest priority, 4= least priority. - Answers in order of which number (1-2) was ranked highest.
Do you think a professional skills shortage will become an issue for your company in the next 12 months?
