Preparing for the Recruitment Surge: How to Make Your Company a Top Choice for Photonics Professionals
The latest Photonics Scotland survey showed that over 80% of companies surveyed forecasted increased revenues and head count over the next 12 months.
Great news and let’s hope so and that this is mirrored throughout the rest of the UK Deep Tech industries.
Two of the main challenges for companies highlighted in the Photonics Scotland report were:
Skills Gap/Shortage – 78% of respondents experienced a skills gap in the last 12 months. The report stated that 65% of companies identified gaps within research and development functions, with gaps also identified in manufacturing and operations (43%) and commercial functions (17%).
Funding and the second half of 2024 saw funding and revenue concerns create a slowdown in recruitment that particularly impacted the tech industry and caused numerous companies to pause or pull back from hiring.
We predict that hiring will come into focus again soon and when it does there is a problem. Everyone will start recruiting at the same time and attracting photonics candidates will again become challenging.
In big picture terms for the Photonics industry, the report states that “addressing the skills challenge will require interventions across the skills landscape” with multiple skills development pathways from university (seen as most critical) but also apprenticeships, internships, and CPD training.
What is clear is that future pressure on recruitment is expected.
So, what can you do to position your company to be the most attractive when it comes to recruiting in the coming months?
Step 1: Commit to and demonstrate your employee development
- Clear Career Paths: Ensure clear career progression pathways and promote from within when possible. Regularly check in with employees about their career aspirations and align opportunities accordingly.
- Collaborative Research Projects: Encourage staff to engage in collaborative research projects with universities, startups, and other companies. This fosters a culture of innovation and helps employees stay at the cutting edge of their field.
- Mentorship Programs: Pair experienced employees with new hires or junior talent for mentorship. This provides guidance, knowledge transfer, and career development.
- Continuous Education: Offer access to specialised courses, certifications, and training programs.
- Knowledge Sharing Platforms: Implement platforms where employees can share their expertise, research, and insights, creating a collaborative and knowledge-driven culture.
Enigma People Solutions is an award-winning technology recruitment consultancy. We find technical leaders for the emerging and enabling technology industries. Visit our services page for more information. Visit our job search page for the latest vacancies in photonics, electronics, semiconductor, software and IoT in Scotland and the UK. Check out our blog page for the latest in the technology industry. You can get in touch with us hello@enigmapeople.com or call us on + 44 131 510 8150