Sustainability is a word that’s bandied around by companies and brands a lot these days, but what does it mean for the world of recruitment?
Sustainability is defined as the state where a process can continue indefinitely, either maintaining or improving. In other words, ensuring that resources are replenished rather than depleted so that business and the planet can continue.
Recruiting for the sustainability job market
Transitioning to a greener economy will help limit the impacts of climate change and doing so will create many new sustainable professionals and transform many existing job titles.
The UK government has set an ambitious target of creating two million green jobs by 2030 as part of its plans for an economy with zero fossil fuel emissions. Therefore it’s no surprise that the listings for sustainability or green jobs in the UK have increased by 91% compared to 2016.
Nowadays, there is no such thing as a single ‘green’ industry anymore. As businesses across the board seek to become more sustainable, green jobs are emerging in every sector, for every skillset all around the UK.
The top 10 industries leading the way for sustainable job opportunities are:
- Environmental Services
- Renewables & Environment
- Architecture & Planning
- Civil Engineering
- Utilities
- International Affairs
- Farming
- Think Tanks
- Public Safety
- Research
The good news is you don’t need to have green credentials to work in sustainability, your transferable skills are what counts! Even traditional jobs, such as law or finance, can be considered green if sustainability is at the heart of the role (for example, environmental law or ethical investment).
So if you’re dedicated to sustainability, there will be a sustainability role somewhere for you! And with Wote Street People being part of TEAM, we have great access to specialist recruiters in engineering, renewables and every sector in between.
Employees seek greener employers
Sustainability is important for business for a couple of reasons; not only it’ll ensure your organisation has longevity as a sustainable business, it’ll help you attract and retain talented staff, and attract more customers.
CIM research has shown that during the recruitment process, job seekers now look more closely at a company’s sustainability strategies and goals. Almost half (48%) would be more willing to work to work for an organisation that has strong sustainable credentials.
The report also found that 48% of employees expect their employer to be transparent and honest about the impact the business has on the planet. By being upfront about your company’s sustainability practices, you may find it easier to attract new talent and keep current staff engaged.
And it’s the younger generations (48% of 18-34 year olds) who look to work in industries which have a less harmful impact on the environment. Makes one wonder if fossil fuel companies will find it difficult to recruit in the coming years…
Source: CIM 2022
If you would like to know more about getting into the sustainability sector, get in touch with Maxine on 01256 236997 or email maxine@wotestreetpeople.co.uk for a confidential chat.
