Dear Chamber Member,
The dawn of Spring this week brings with it renewed optimism and energy. This is reflected in the high business confidence levels reported at 92% in our most recent Economic Trends, in association with Permanent TSB – a survey through which you, our members, have shared experiences through Q4 2021, and also an outlook on the first three months of 2022. The results also highlight recruitment trends and the long-term future of hybrid working models in what has become a highly competitive market for talent. Some of the stand out results include:
- 30% of member respondents hired for a fully remote role in the past 12 months of which 60% were from outside the Cork region
- 70% offer hybrid working options to new hires
- 67% implemented digital transformation programmes to facilitate remote working in the past 12 months
- 62% expect an increase to employee numbers in the next 12 months
- 49% have vacancies currently advertised
The last two years have been turbulent for businesses, this in turn has led to talent shortages amongst other issues. The experience of Cork Chamber members mirrors that of companies globally - attracting the best candidates and recruiting people for the right roles has been a significant challenge for businesses of all sizes. Hiring remotely allows businesses to access a larger talent pool and attract more potential candidates to apply with the incentive of increased flexibility. This fact offers both challenges and opportunities for employers and the Cork region at large. One thing is certain though, hybrid working is here to stay.
Cork Chamber is committed to championing Cork as a globally recognised place for business, innovation and quality of life. As part of this commitment we seek to champion the successes in our business community. Our Cork Company of the Year Awards are now open for applications and it is without doubt that these awards have acknowledged some of Cork’s great business stories, helping to document their journeys and celebrate their success. There are four distinct categories designed to help your business earn the recognition it deserves. Visit www.corkchamber.ie for more on the awards, run in association with Vodafone Ireland and media partner the Irish Examiner.
I hope to see you at one of the events we are hosting in the coming weeks and look forward to great networking and collaboration through 2022 as we support the growth and reputation of our city region.
Warm regards,
Paula Cogan
President of Cork Chamber
