Hays Office Support - October 2008
Hotspots
It's a case of business as usual in Australia's office support sector, with demand continuing to outstrip supply for many of the specialist skills within this sector.
Legal secretaries are the prime hotspot of demand, with job flow high but candidate levels low. Good candidates are snapped up quickly, particularly those with litigation experience and strong Dictaphone skills.
Meanwhile corporate receptionists that can manage a frenetic environment remain an area of demand. Both permanent and temporary vacancy activity is high, with employers becoming very specific in the candidates they will consider, often requiring particular industry backgrounds. Demonstrated long-term tenure in another reception role is also sought in order to avoid those candidates simply seeking a stepping-stone to other support functions. Employers are becoming more aware of the impact of first impressions and so require candidates with impeccable front-line service skills.
All-round administrators at the mid level are also in demand; there is an oversupply of entry and senior level staff, but a shortage of office all-rounders at the mid level.
Executive assistants with experience supporting senior managers up to CEO level are another hotspot of demand. Those with a diverse skill set are most valued. Personal assistants are also required, and are now providing support to senior managers. Their duties are becoming more diverse and candidates more adaptable.
The coming quarter
Pressure on senior management has resulted in a greater demand for highly skilled and experienced candidates. In general, the requirement for office support staff is always going to exist, so overall job flow remains at typical levels with no overall change - either increase or decrease - expected this quarter.
With office support skills remaining in high demand, the flexibility of trial periods has reduced and new hires are expected to perform immediately rather than enjoy the grace of a settling in period.
We do expect the coming quarter to witness a demand for specific skill-sets, with less flexibility than previously seen in the market. Strong skills, experience and industry knowledge are becoming prerequisites, since less time is available for training and up-skilling new employees.
Salaries
Salaries will remain stable within the permanent office support arena, despite the expectation of high-calibre candidates rising.
Candidate trends
The temporary candidate pool is set to receive a healthy injection from overseas candidates on working holiday visas here for the Australian summer. This is good news for those companies seeking to cover busy periods or projects with contractors.
Local candidates prefer long-term stability and opportunities providing career progression and development. In general, candidate movement has reduced and this impacts the shortage of quality available applicants.
