Britain faces a massive shortfall in its workforce
March 22, 2013
Filed under Internet Marketing
According to a recent report from Randstad, the Netherland’s based multinational human resources consulting firm, by 2050 the United Kingdom can expect to face a shortfall in its workforce of around 3.1 million. The report is based on statistics compiled by Eurostat, the European Union’s statistical office.
Randstad’s analysis shows that in 2050 the UK’s population will be about 74.5 million and that a workforce of around 35.4 million will be required. However, with an aging population meaning only 60.5% of the people (or 45.1 million) will be available to work and assuming an employment rate matching the pre-downturn level of 71.6%, then only 32.3 million will be in work – a shortfall of 3.1 million.
The UK is already seeing shortages in many sectors and it is anticipated that in the future those in shortest supply will be teaching staff, with an expected shortfall of 127,500 by 2050. Construction workers and nursing staff are next on the list, both sectors expected to be over 60,000 short of requirements. Work-related migration is considered to be a major contributor to the problem.
From 2003 to 2007 the UK experienced a net inflow of skilled workers and saw a 13% increase in economic growth. Since 2007, however, the picture has changed. There has been a 16% rise in work-related emigration combined with a 24% fall in work-related immigration. This is the result of the economic downturn and the restrictions on skilled workers entering the country introduced in 2010.
The ageing population is also a major factor affecting availability for the work force. According to projections, by 2050 only 60.5% of the population will be of working age (between 16 and 65) compared with 66.4% today. The engineering industry clearly demonstrates this age problem as it faces massive retirement levels in the years to come. For example, by 2025 some 70% of the nuclear work force is expected to have retired, this at a time when EDF Energy has plans to invest £20 billion over the next 15 years in the generation of low-carbon nuclear energy.
According to Randstad’s UK CEO Mark Bull, these projections are conservative. They do, however, present a disturbing picture and show that if the necessary talent is not available in the domestic market, then British industry must look overseas. Mr Bull says that there is a wealth skilled professionals abroad, but attracting them to the UK and then obtaining work permits is proving a tough challenge for many potential employers. He points to the appointment of Canadian Mark Carney as Governor of the Bank of England as proof that sometimes the most suitable candidates for a post can be found overseas.
These projections appear to be grim. Forewarned, however, is forearmed. There is time for Britain to take steps to mitigate against the likelihood a future shortfall in labour.
About author
My name is Richard Deeley and I am the global PR consultant for Randstad recruitment. The London jobs market is a major focus of priority in terms of research and understanding both client and candidate expectations.
4 Considerations to Make Before Getting a Degree in Graphic Design
March 21, 2013
Filed under Graphic Design
If you have an artistic flair, becoming a graphic designer may be a great career path. This growing field affords those with degrees the ability to work in a variety of areas or freelance from a home office environment. There are some essential things you should consider to guarantee you’ll be successful.
1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree and Major in Graphic Design
Whether you choose a conventional higher education venue or opt for an online degree, do obtain a bachelor’s degree and major in graphic design. For example, if you live in Florida, a Miami graphic design degree is possible with the many graphic design courses in Miami.
Because it’s possible to begin to build a freelance portfolio as you obtain your degree, ask the school how to ensure you are taking the required core and design courses while still affording you time to work on projects, enter graphic design contests and participate in local design events.
2. Be an Expert in Design Software and Programming
Today’s graphic designers are versed in a variety of design software like Adobe Illustrator and Flash, InDesign, Photoshop, Maya, QuarkXPress and After Effects. The more programs you master, the easier it will be for you to land jobs, especially if you’re employed in-house and are asked to work with many types of design software.
You’ll also need to learn web design programming like HTML, XHTML and CSS—these are often intertwined with graphic designers and the projects they tackle.
3. Create a Continuous Portfolio and Build Resource Tools
Even when you start out, take the time to place every piece of work you’ve designed into a portfolio and make it available online as well as in print. This is important whether you choose to freelance in Miami graphic design or choose to work in a corporate environment as clients and employers will want to view samples of your work. Include designs you created for personal growth as well as contest entries and be sure to include all paid work.
You’ll also need to build some resource tools you can use in projects such as fonts, artwork and templates you can use down the road. Utilize your instructors and classmates to find free and allowed resources and steer clear of any materials that have a copyright.
4. Know Who Is Hiring and How Much You’ll Make
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average median salary for a graphic designer with a bachelor’s degree is $43,500. Job growth for this field is expected to increase by 13 percent between 2010 and 2020. One could realistically make more by climbing the ladder, building a great portfolio or managing a group of designers.
Once armed with your degree, you can expect to find jobs in the publishing and advertising arenas along with public relations. Many graphic designers choose to freelance and offer their services in a variety of industries—even designing floorplans, landscaping or vehicle graphics.
If a career in graphic design feels right to you, use these four tips and you’ll soon find your way to an exciting career with lots of opportunity.
Resources:
http://www.youthedesigner.com/2008/10/08/25-graphic-design-career-preparation-tips/
