Is the light at the end of the tunnel for Wellington's employment market?

In 2024, New Zealand's job market has experienced significant fluctuations, with Wellington facing some of the most challenging conditions. A combination of high inflation, a cost-of-living crisis, and redundancies has affected businesses and individuals alike. While these trends are prevalent nationwide, Wellington’s situation is unique due to its reliance on the public sector and recent government directives that have intensified the impact on the region.

The Government's cost-cutting measures, which included directives for the public sector to reduce spending and encourage employees to return to the office, have led to widespread redundancies. According to the latest statistics, as of the beginning of October, the total number of public sector job cuts reached 6,843, with the potential for even more layoffs in the coming months. This wave of job losses has created a sense of uncertainty and instability among professionals in the capital, affecting not only those directly employed in the public sector but also the wider business community that relies on the public sector’s economic stability.

Wellington, often regarded as the heart of New Zealand’s governmental operations, is now grappling with a “perfect storm” of economic challenges. The once-thriving employment scene has been shaken, with even iconic institutions feeling the strain. However, despite the difficult circumstances, there is hope that the market has reached its lowest point and might soon begin to recover.

“It's been a tough year across the country with businesses and individuals battling the effects of inflation and the resulting cost of living crisis, redundancies, and the return of the brain drain.”

During a recent Mahi Media Market Update, Frog Recruitment New Zealand’s Managing Director, Shannon Barlow, addressed the current situation in Wellington. Her insights provided a closer look at how businesses and individuals are coping with the ongoing challenges and what the future might hold for the region.

“It's been a tough year across the country with businesses and individuals battling the effects of inflation and the resulting cost of living crisis, redundancies, and the return of the brain drain,” Barlow began. Her words highlighted the compounded difficulties Wellingtonians have been experiencing as a result of multiple, converging economic pressures.

She went on to emphasise that, unlike other parts of the country, Wellington’s challenges are not solely due to broader economic factors but are deeply tied to the government’s decisions. “Add to that the government directives to the public sector to cut costs and return to the office, [which] mean that this perfect storm has hit Wellington the hardest,” Barlow explained. The sheer number of job cuts in such a short time has disrupted the region’s employment landscape, affecting not just public sector workers but also private businesses reliant on public sector contracts and partnerships.

Despite these obstacles, Barlow remains cautiously optimistic that the worst is behind them. “But just as the OCR announcement buoyed the rest of the country, I think our friends in the capital must be feeling like surely the market conditions have bottomed out and it’s got to get better from here,” she noted, hinting at the possibility of a gradual market rebound as businesses and individuals adjust to the new normal.

For those navigating Wellington’s turbulent job market, staying informed and being proactive can make a significant difference. Below are some key strategies and advice to help professionals and job seekers weather the storm and come out stronger:

1. Adaptability is Key: With the public sector facing continued cuts, it’s crucial for job seekers to be open to opportunities in the private sector. Consider roles that may not align perfectly with previous experience but offer potential for growth and skill development.
2. Up-Skill and Re-Skill: Investing in short courses or certifications that are in demand can help increase employability. Focus on areas such as digital skills, project management, and strategic planning, which are increasingly valued in both public and private sectors.
3. Networking and Professional Associations: Building a strong professional network is more important than ever. Attend local industry events, join relevant associations, and participate in online communities. Connections can lead to job opportunities that aren’t advertised publicly.
4. Maintain a Positive Mindset: Job searching during a downturn can be disheartening, but it’s essential to stay positive and persistent. Seek support from career mentors or professional groups that can provide encouragement and guidance.
5. Focus on Resilience and Flexibility: Being able to demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity and a willingness to take on new challenges can set job seekers apart in a competitive market.
   
   

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In business since 2002 in New Zealand, Frog Recruitment is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. Located across Auckland and Wellington, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 RCSA Excellence in Candidate Care Award, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.