There has been a spike in searches for casual and weekend work as households scramble to cope with cost-of-living increases that are running well ahead of wage growth.
New data from job website Indeed shows what’s described as a noticeable uptick in job searches for part-time and weekend work, as well as jobs requiring no experience.
Employment data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) this week is likely to show a record number in work in Ireland, but the hunt for part-time jobs may be a sign members of households that were comfortably able to depend on one or two wage earners are now seeking additional income as inflation eats away at real incomes.
Indeed economist Jack Kennedy said the trend is likely to reflect people who need flexibility, such as parents, students, or people who are semi-retired, wanting to engage in the workforce in a way that can fit into their lives.
“These trends clearly show that jobseekers are feeling the pinch right now as wage growth sits at roughly half of inflation rates,” he said.
"Salary, benefits and job security are the main priorities for them when considering their career, however it’s possible we may see less frequent job hopping as people become wary of moving in an uncertain environment.”
The fact many searches are actively for jobs with “no experience required” provides an opportunity for employers, he said.
“If training can be provided on the job, listing prior experience as not necessary could be a great way to access a pool of untapped candidates as we reach full employment."
The Indeed data also indicates strong interest abroad in coming to Ireland.
The top two searches in Ireland were “visa sponsorship, healthcare assistant” (up 532pc) and “visa sponsorship, elderly care” (up 421pc), while “working visa sponsorship” came in at number six (up 214pc).
According to Indeed’s job postings data, Childcare saw the biggest rise in advertised pay last year (+17pc). However, the latest figures from the Indeed wage tracker show a general slowdown in wage growth in Ireland to 4.4pc in December, below their 2022 peaks.
