The technological advancements in recent years can often make it seem like we’re living in a sci-fi film. While these developments may provide us with countless benefits, employee skill sets can struggle to keep pace.
The Edge Foundation’s latest ‘Skills Shortages in the UK Economy’ report shows that there are an estimated 600,000 tech vacancies in the UK, and this figure is predicted to hit one million by 2020. Looking a little closer to home, demand for software tech skills in the South West is 39% higher than the national average.
Tech is undoubtedly going to continue to underpin not just how we work, but every aspect of our lives, and businesses of all sizes need to ensure they are recruiting staff with future-proof skills. Of course, this becomes even more vital for tech start-ups.
But, if you’re a budding enterprise, how can you make sure you’re getting the best candidates? At the end of 2018 we discussed this topic during our presentation at ‘First Tuesday’ at the University of Bath Innovation Centre.
Recruitment best practice
Of course, every business wants to attract the perfect candidate, but how do you go about doing that?
Before you start, ask yourself “why?” Employing new staff is a long-term investment so any additions to your workforce should align with your business objectives and mission. This can provide you with a solid understanding of what you need from a new employee.
Technology has also created a myriad of ways for start-ups to discover talent. But finding the time to look can prove just as difficult as the perfect candidate. Using a range of options, such as LinkedIn and social media, job ads, networking, and partnering with a third party, can give you a wide base of possible candidates.
But finding the perfect addition to your team is only half the battle. You also need to have processes in place to ensure you retain your employees. Your staff are your most valuable asset and today’s workers want more than just a 9-5. If you’re not willing to offer training, transparency, and regular communications, they’ll find someone else who is.
Skills shortage solution
Tech start-ups play an indispensable role in the UK economy. In fact, Tech Nation’s 2018 report revealed that tech is growing 2.6 times faster than the rest of the UK economy. It is clear that we all have a responsibility to help tech start-ups get the support they need.
And this is a sentiment echoed by Living Map’s chief technology officer, Tim Bishop, who presented with us at our First Tuesday presentation. Through a joint effort, businesses, forums and institutions in Bath can help educate, train, and support each other in finding and retaining the right candidates. By collaborating, we can help turn Bath into a tech hub.
If you’d like help discovering the next team member for your tech start-up, speak to FWD Thinking today.