Recruitment in the UAE has traditionally seen a standstill during the summer months with numerous companies delaying hiring decisions until September. However evidence suggests that some firms are taking advantage of the period to attract the best talent, according to the Gulf Recruitment Group.
The group said the number of new jobs registered during the summer months was unaffected in 2010 with figures for June 2011 highlighting that this momentum will continue throughout this summer. In 2010, the Gulf Recruitment Group saw the number of interviewed candidates rise by 16% in the June to September period in comparison to the March to May period highlighting an increase in activity within the market during the summer months.
Steve Freed, Director at the Gulf Recruitment Group states, “It is a smart move when companies continue their recruitment during this period. It allows them to pick the best candidates in the market place without having to enter into a bartering war. Companies can then bring staff on and train them during the summer period ready for when business really picks up”.
Activity going into the third quarter suggests continued demand for revenue linked positions such as sales and marketing as companies continue to focus on their top line. A moderate rise in business confidence in 2010 has allowed for slightly more operational spend in areas such as finance, legal and HR. Sectors enjoying real growth across the region are healthcare, infrastructure, education, insurance and oil and gas field services.
