The number of HR jobs available online has increased for the first time in six months, the latest study of online recruitment has revealed, showing the first signs of recovery for the sector.
The July 2009 Monster Employment Index saw a six point (11%) rise in HR hiring, from 57 to 63 points, where the baseline is 100. In January this year, the index hit 52, the lowest level recorded in more than a year. This rose to 72 in February, but declined each month after that.
Last month, Personnel Today reported that HR hiring was likely to resume by the end of the summer.
However, last month’s index – compiled from an analysis of millions of online job opportunities culled from corporate career sites and job boards – is still far off the reading of 175 for the HR sector in April 2008, suggesting it continues to be one of the worst hit sectors during the recession.
Overall, the July 2009 index was down 37% year-on-year.
Hugo Sellert, head of economic research at Monster Worldwide, said: “The UK economy’s sustained contraction in the second quarter means labour market conditions will remain challenging.
“Competition for top talent is still fierce, however, as companies seek to attract the most qualified people from the growing pool of unemployed workers.”
Public-driven sectors continued to perform strongly, with opportunities in healthcare and social work up 7%, reaching a new Monster Employment Index high.
In contrast, the hiring of management and consulting workers fell by 10%, showing a continued annual decline of 26%.
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