Efficient administrative support is critical for the smooth operation of businesses across all sectors. In 2024, administrative skills are among the top ten job categories in Ireland with high demand across a wide range of industries, according to the latest data from Jobs.ie
Recruitment Insights
Experienced administrative professionals have always been highly sought after in sectors such as finance, sales, and education, with demand extending further to include hospitality, healthcare, technology, and more. The inclusion of senior administrative professionals to the Critical Skills Occupations List for 2024 shines a light on a diverse range of industries facing a shortage of skilled admin professionals, underscoring the urgent need for businesses to prioritise these roles.
Administrative roles encompass a wide range of positions at all experience levels, including executive assistants, office managers, data clerks, and customer service representatives. Each role demands a unique set of skills and competencies, emphasising the importance of staying informed about the latest trends and recruitment strategies for administrative staff in Ireland. By investing in the development of administrative capabilities, organisations can ensure they attract and retain the best talent, equipping their teams to meet the evolving demands of the global job market.
Hiring Activity
The ESRI’s upbeat assessment of the Irish economy forecasts a positive trajectory for 2024, with a robust labour market, declining inflation, and continued low unemployment rates.
Hiring activity for administration opportunities has been brisk in the first half of 2024, with job applications up 13% compared to the same period of the previous year and the applications per vacancy increasing significantly by 60%.
The job vacancy rate is an important economic indicator, providing insights into the dynamics of the labour market. It allows various stakeholders, from government and policymakers to businesses and jobseekers, to make better-informed decisions.
Falling back from high vacancy rates during the post-pandemic hiring surge, the current vacancy rate is 1.1, a rate last recorded in late 2019 and suggests a return to a more balanced and settled labour market.
Administration roles, specifically, have a job vacancy rate of 1.0 as of Q1 2024, reflecting a steady demand for skilled admin professionals. This figure underscores the consistent need for administrative staff in Ireland and points to the sector’s critical role in supporting business operations across industries.
Talent Attraction and Recruitment Considerations
The success of any organisation is dependent on the quality of talent it attracts and recruits. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the strategies and tactics employed when trying to attract and recruit top talent.
Here are five considerations for recruiters in the administration sector:
Candidate experience: A successful hiring process in any industry requires providing a positive experience to candidates, from the initial job posting until the final job offer. It is crucial to convey a strong commitment to professional development and support for staff which can include highlighting opportunities for skill enhancement, continuous training programmes, and a supportive work environment that values administrative excellence and career growth.
Employer brand: Effective employer branding is about defining and effectively communicating the qualities that will make your company the first choice for the talent you want to attract. Once you have identified your employment offerings, leverage these channels to tell a compelling narrative about why a candidate should choose to work with you rather than a competitor.
Training & Skills Development: With the increasing integration of AI and automation, technological proficiency has become paramount. Skills in AI tools, data management, and digital platforms are now critical for navigating this changing landscape. Excellent communication skills remain crucial, but a strong grasp on advanced technological skills will help jobseekers stay ahead. By understanding these trends and continuously updating their skill set, jobseekers can better prepare themselves for available opportunities and stand out in a competitive job market.
Competitive Benefits: Offering competitive benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans, not only improves the overall well-being and job satisfaction of employees but also makes the organisation more attractive to potential candidates. This approach helps attract and retain skilled and dedicated administrative professionals.
Employee Retention: High retention rates reflect a positive work environment where staff feel valued and engaged, encouraging them to speak highly of the organisation and attract new talent. In administration roles, this begins with supportive management that leads transparently and listens actively to feedback. By ensuring a nurturing and stable workplace, employers can enhance their reputation and improve their talent attraction and recruitment efforts.
