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- Social workers and credit controllers are some of the in-demand positions in the UK this year.
- That's according to a new report from the recruitment firm Hays.
- Two of the most in-demand roles are engineering-based, according to Hays.
If you're considering job-hopping now the new year has arrived, you're not alone.
The recruitment firm Hays says just over half of workers in Britain intend to look for a new gig in 2024.
Employers are also likely to be seeking out new staff, with more than three-quarters saying they plan to hire this year. Many will be looking for candidates with "soft" skills such as communication, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving, according to Hays.
Skills in AI are also likely to give candidates an edge. While 71% of companies say they expect to use the tech in the future, only a quarter reported having access to the AI skills they need.
Several of the most in-demand jobs are in the education, technology, and sustainability sectors.
Top of the list are social workers, with salaries starting at between £26,000 ($32,860) and £33,500 ($42,335) for newly qualified staff. Maintenance engineers and quantity surveyors are the second and third most in-demand professionals, respectively.
Simon Winfield, the CEO of Hays UK and Ireland, said: "The roles featured on our list are at the top of employers' wish lists up and down the country, as many struggle not only to attract staff but also to retain them due to high competition for skills.
"If you're thinking about a move in 2024 — it's good news, as employers are much more willing to hire based on skills and aptitude rather than just experience and qualifications. When applying for roles and in an interview setting, make sure to highlight the skills you've gained and how you might develop them further — it doesn't matter if you can't tick every box on a job description."
Workers looking to land a new opportunity may benefit from applying early in the year.
In an article for Business Insider, Bonnie Dilber said that roles posted in January often need to be filled very quickly, making it one of the best times for candidates to apply for a job.
Here's the full list of the most in-demand jobs for 2024, according to Hays:
Qualified social workers
Multi-skilled maintenance engineers
Quantity surveyors
Cyber security experts
Energy/carbon managers
Engineering project managers
Special educational needs teaching assistants
Credit controllers
Newly-qualified accountants
Supplier relationship managers