​The pandemic has accelerated the rise in changing technologies and new ways of working, shaping the way organisations hire new talent. With 84 per cent of employers planning to expand remote working, traditional approaches need to be revised in order to maintain a competitive edge.

So, as we get closer to 2022, here are seven recruitment trends that you and your business should prepare for.

1. Candidate-driven market

The most significant change in hiring is the shift to a candidate-driven market, with more jobs available than there are candidates. As the applicants began to hold more power, they can easily negotiate better salaries and benefits from the companies that are desperate to secure the talent. Therefore, in the new year, we can predict to see more creative recruitment strategies and employer brand communications.

2. Selective applications

Due to the shift in the market, employers can expect to see a decrease in the applications, as candidates become more selective and considered about the jobs they apply for. To attract the best talent, employers need to make their workplace desirable and prioritize the elements that will appeal to their target candidates. Of course, streamlining the application process is important too – in 2022, no one should be made to fill out questions such as education and work experience, after uploading a CV.

3. Diversity, equity & inclusion is a must-have

In the last two years, the awareness of social issues has risen significantly, and the candidates began to align themselves with businesses that share their values and are committed to their DEI policies. However, diversity and inclusion are also central to an organization’s success; according to McKinsey’s Diversity Wins report, companies in the top-quartile for ethnic diversity on executive teams are 33 per cent likely to have bigger profitability. Furthermore, those with higher gender diversity on executive teams were 21 per cent more likely to outperform. In 2022, Diversity and Inclusion is no longer a ‘nice-have’ – it must be central to the company’s values and business practices.

4. Remote recruitment is here to stay

 Regardless of whether the workforce is back in the office or continues to work from home, remote hiring is not going anywhere. Interviewing virtually not only allows recruiters access to a larger and diverse talent pool with a wider skill set, but it is a time-saving, efficient way of completing the initial parts of the hiring process. With remote work frequently being an option for communications and marketing professionals, embracing streamlined, remote recruitment that is not limited by geography, is a trend that will remain prevalent in 2022

5. Employer branding is everything

With demand for new talent often outstripping supply in the marketing and communications industries, employer branding (including the company’s reputation) became a critical element of recruitment and retention strategy. The more information candidates have about the company and its mission, culture and purpose, the more likely they are to have a positive impression and apply for the job. In addition, a strong employer brand can lead to a 28 per cent reduction in staff turnover. You will also be able to take advantage of a greater reach at a lower marketing cost, as word-of-mouth travels fast across candidates’ networks.

6. Longer notice periods

While three-month notice periods for senior hires have been an industry standard for some time, communications and marketing roles that do not require as much experience are more likely to entail a notice period of at least two months now. As employers are trying to hold on to their best talent, we can anticipate that these trends will continue into 2022 and beyond.

7. Focus on retention

Finally, as the market continues to be driven by the candidates, employee engagement and retention is a great talking point. Moving into 2022, it is time for employees to rethink their careers and consider their opportunities, as there are more options than ever before. With so many companies competing for the best talent and offering increased salaries, onboarding bonuses and flexible work, retention should be top of mind when devising growth plans for the new year. People value company culture and loyalty rewards, so businesses must take this into account when trying to attract and retain new employees.

Whether you are looking for permanent, interim, contract or temporary staff, our experienced interim team will ensure it’s a seamless process from beginning to end. If you would like to discuss your hiring requirements or are looking for new opportunities in 2022, get in touch with our team today.

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VMA GROUP is a leading international interim, contract, temporary and permanent recruitment and executive search specialist. We are specifically focused on providing support to the communications, digital and marketing communities.

Our specialist practice areas cover: communications, corporate communications, internal communications, change communications, PR, media relations, financial communications, CSR, public affairs, investor relations, marketing, digital marketing and agency services.

We have a reputation for providing expert consultancy services and advice, supported by in-depth knowledge of the professions we recruit for. Our thought leadership and benchmarking studies have become go-to resources for the communications and marketing industry, supporting planning and decision-making for organisations of all shapes and sizes.

In the UK, VMA GROUP has offices in London and Manchester and in Europe, VMA GROUP has offices in Amsterdam and Brussels, but we work with organisations and individuals on a global basis.

VMA GROUP is committed to equal opportunities and is a Diversity Pledged Recruiter.