- 112% increase in job applications across New Zealand
- 179% increase in job applications in Auckland as jobs in Wellington insufficient
- Applicants looking to move overseas in search for jobs
- Recruitment specialists warn of losing skilled workers
Recent data shows a 112% surge in job applicants across New Zealand compared to the same time last year, coinciding with widespread public sector layoffs. This surge in applicants can be attributed to the announcement made by the Wellington government last month, regarding significant job cuts in the public sector. Recruitment specialists at Robert Walters have already noticed the impact of this decision on the job market.
Bridget Clarke, Senior Director at Robert Walters Wellington, said, “We have already witnessed a 45% surge in the number of individuals applying for roles in Wellington compared to the same time last year, with our other offices across New Zealand reporting even higher increases. Our clients, who have advertised job openings, have been inundated with applications.”
Applicants leaving Wellington
Robert Walters advised that the number of available jobs in Wellington is insufficient to accommodate the growing number of applicants and warned that people who have found themselves out a job will need to carefully consider their next steps. According to SEEK, there data shows a 38% drop in job ads for Wellington and a 27% decrease nationwide.
As a result, Robert Walters has noticed a rise in people seeking to relocate from Wellington to other regions, particularly Auckland and even overseas to Australia. The recruitment specialists told us that their Auckland office has experienced a staggering 179% increase in applicants for live job opportunities compared to last year. Similarly, Robert Walters Australian offices have seen a substantial surge in Kiwis applying for positions, whether they intend to fully relocate or work remotely.
Clarke issued a warning, expressing concern over the potential loss of skilled workers from Wellington as more individuals view moving away as their only option. “If the trend of job cuts persists, we may face a future where there is a severe shortage of skilled workers to fill public sector roles in Wellington. This is undoubtedly a disconcerting prospect. Additionally, there is a risk of increased competition among organisations for the limited pool of talent, which could drive up rates.”
Hiring managers inundated with applications
From a hiring perspective, this presents a remarkable opportunity for managers to secure top talent. The influx of job seekers means that hiring managers have the chance to select from a pool of highly qualified individuals, as there are more applicants than available positions. As candidates, people will need to step up their game when it comes to seeking new job opportunities and stand out amidst the competition.
Clarke added, “In a job market flooded with exceptional talent and limited opportunities, the key to enhancing your job application and CV lies in personalisation and uniqueness. Now, more than ever, individuals must take extra care and effort to create a standout CV. Crafting a tailored cover letter specific to each opportunity is essential; a spray-and-pray approach will not suffice.”
About Robert Walters
Robert Walters is one of the world’s leading specialist professional recruitment consultancies with a global presence spanning 31 countries. The New Zealand business recruits across the fields of accounting & finance, property, general management, human resources, information technology, legal, risk management, compliance & audit, sales, marketing & communications, secretarial & business support and supply chain & procurement.
