Future bright for Scots graduating in 2016

Four in five firms (83 per cent) with employees in Scotland plan to increase the number of young people they employ in 2016, according to a new survey.

Graduates of Scottish educational institutes may find it easier to get a job this year, according to CBI and Accenture.

Figures from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and Accenture Technology have suggested an increase in graduate opportunities for Scots leaving university and college education in 2016

The 18th annual survey revealed that 50 per cent of the 342 companies consulted plan to grow their workforce across Scotland this year, with permanent jobs twice as likely to be offered over temporary roles (44 per cent compared to 20 per cent).

In addition, 45 per cent of Scottish firms expected to increase their apprenticeship intake, while 34 per cent will recruit higher numbers of graduates.

Hugh Aitken, CBI Scotland Director, said: “Firms in Scotland are gearing up for a positive 2016 with many planning to create jobs, most of which will be permanent. Young people should find more chances to get a foot on the career ladder this year, with many firms looking to boost their intake of graduates and apprentices.

“It’s vital to see everyone enjoy the rewards of the recovery and Scotland has a big role in driving the UK economy forward. Growth should work for everyone, and raising skills is the key route to ensuring this happens through improved productivity and pay.”

At a national level, job growth was said to be continuing across the whole of the UK, despite concerns over rising labour costs thanks to the planned National Living Wage and apprenticeship levy.

Emma McGuigan, Managing Director of Accenture Technology UK & Ireland said: “Business optimism is absolutely clear, but these findings also signal a real challenge in the employment landscape. Most significantly, just under half (46 per cent) of respondents reported a lack of skills is threatening to have a major impact on the UK’s labour market competitiveness.

“For that reason, over half (52 per cent) of respondents cited the development and maintenance of digital skills within organisations as having a new urgency, especially as a way to develop new revenue streams.

“The workforce of the future will not just be more digitally literate, but more capable of delivering new digital business models, customer experiences and business partnerships. These broader digital skills will be essential to boosting the UK’s competitiveness and sustainable employment growth.”

This financial year’s survey was undertaken between August and October 2015. by the two organisations.