Talent solutions | HR managers says career development is the way to attract talent - are they right?

Almost half of HR managers (47%) think career advancement is the best way to attract and retain younger talent, even though salary, flexible working, job security and financial benefits are among perks that are more important for those employees.

As businesses continue to battle in the minefield that is talent acquisition in a tough economic market, research conducted by Reed Talent Solutions has found there seems to be a growing disconnect between what employees need and what businesses are offering.

The research looked at what HR and hiring managers are currently struggling with when it comes to attracting and retaining new talent – those who have recently returned to work after a career gap or recently changed industries – and early talent – those aged between 16 and 25, who are new to the employment market. It also asked those employees for their preferences and experiences.

It found that there’s a fundamental gap between what businesses offer and what employees want. For example, when looking to recruit, almost three-quarters (76%) of HR and hiring managers would be very or fairly likely to consider hiring based on soft skills – on the other hand, only 23% of workers new to the employment market are offered soft skills training.