Industry Spotlights

When in comes to choosing their next role, job security is the most important factor for candidates in the retail and consumer products industry. 

While job security was ranked number four in 2012, 14.5% of candidates now consider it as their number one driver of attraction. It may be a moderately higher priority today because of a reduced focus on other factors, such as career development opportunities and work-life balance. It may also be more important than salary and compensation due to unionised pay rates within the industry. The greater focus on job security may also be a reflection of the more challenging economic conditions that the retail and consumer products industry has been facing in recent times and the proposed changes to trading hours. 

Salary and compensation is the number two driver of attraction for candidates in retail and consumer products (14.1%). While job security is a higher priority, candidates are still significantly more likely to say that casual roles with an hourly rate is a ‘must have’ or an opportunity that would delight them. As a result, employers who can offer long-term casual work may be viewed more favourably.

Work-life balance, which was the number one driver for candidates in 2012, is now ranked in third place when it comes to making employment choices. Although it is now moderately less important than other drivers, it is still high on the list of priorities. Candidates in this industry are significantly more likely to be looking for part time roles, as well as regular working hours, plus a rostered work schedule. The ability to work close to home or in a highly accessible location may also play a role. In fact, workplace location and working environment are considered significantly more important to candidates in this industry than for those in the total sample group.  

Candidates in the retail and consumer products industry are just as likely as those in any industry to view a permanent role as a ‘must have’ or something that would delight them, however employers who can offer long-term casual opportunities look set to stand out. 

About this research: The data points referred to on this page are drawn from the SEEK Laws of Attraction survey. For more information about the SEEK Laws of Attraction survey and the terms and conditions governing the use of this data, click here.