Sharp Rise in Jobs

More Scots have been appointed to jobs and average salaries are going up, according to a report.

That's the findings of the Bank of Scotland's report on jobs for October, which shows there was a sharp rise in new hires.

But the number of vacancies also increased, which the bank says shows business confidence is high.

October’s survey showed sharp and accelerated increases in permanent placements and starting salaries, linked partly to increased demand for staff.

Growth in the temporary jobs space eased somewhat, however, with slower increases in billings and temp job vacancies recorded.
 
The Bank of Scotland Labour Market Barometer remained elevated by historical standards in October. At 65.0, little-changed from September’s 64.9, the barometer was at a level consistent with a marked improvement in labour market conditions and above the UK equivalent which dropped to a seven-month low at the start of the final quarter.   
 
Donald MacRae, Chief Economist at Bank of Scotland, commented: “October saw the Labour Market Barometer reach 65.0 - the fourth highest in the survey history – signalling further improvements in labour market conditions in Scotland.  The number of people appointed to jobs increased, as did starting salaries.  A rise in vacancies confirmed business confidence remains high.  The recovery in the Scottish economy looks set to continue into 2015.”