Voluntary staff turnover has risen in 23 percent of organisations in New Zealand over the past year, according to recruiting experts Hays.
Based on findings in the 2016 Hays Salary Guide, just 12 percent of the 419 organisations surveyed, representing 245,716 employees, reported decreased staff turnover during the past 12 months. The remaining 65 percent said turnover had stayed the same.
“The increasing number of resignations shows that New Zealand’s job market is delivering the opportunities its workforce seeks,” says Jason Walker, managing mirector of Hays in New Zealand. “People can see the positivity around them and know that demand is increasing for highly skilled professionals.
“They are confident enough to take advantage and secure a new role that will advance their career.
“Yes dairy prices have been weak, but the construction and service sectors, especially inbound tourism, are strong. In fact 76 percent of employers expect business activity to increase over the coming 12 months, and 70 percent saw it rise during the last year.
“While just 36 percent say the general economic outlook will strengthen, this is understandable given weak dairy prices. Fortunately other sectors are active as new job creation absorbs the inflow of migrants and keeps our job market buoyant.
“Candidates are also aware that strong job opportunities are on offer. Permanent and temporary job numbers are increasing, while even Kiwi’s previously working in Australia are returning home to secure good roles,” he said.
The Hays Salary Guide includes salary and recruiting trends for over 1,000 roles. It is based on a survey of 419 organisations in New Zealand, representing 245,716 employees, as well as placements made by Hays.