The UK has an average monthly salary of £2,307, compared to £1,889 across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and £1,529 globally, according to research by global workforce solutions organisation ManpowerGroup Solutions.
Its Total workforce index compares hiring conditions across 75 countries, evaluating more than 90 factors in four categories: skills availability, cost efficiency, regulation and productivity. When considering cost efficiency, the research analyses wages, benefits, tax and operations metrics.
The index identified the UK as the most attractive labour market in EMEA, ahead of Ireland and Estonia, which ranked second and third. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) placed fourth among the most attractive labour markets in EMEA, and Israel ranked fifth.
The UK has also entered the global rankings for the most attractive labour market, to place within the top five for the first time. This is two places higher than the recorded ranking in 2017.
The research further confirmed that the UK has a total workforce of 33.6 million and that 47.8% of these are employed in white-collar jobs.
James Hick, managing director at ManpowerGroup Enterprise, said: “Amid the backdrop [of] political and economic uncertainty, it is pleasing to see the UK top the EMEA Total workforce index rankings for the first time.
“While some employers have shifted their local workforce investments, the strength of the candidate pool and talent performance remains steady in the UK. However, what remains to be seen is whether this positive outlook can continue in the long-term, as questions are still being asked on the UK economy, worker status and productivity.”
“Technological change is inevitable and the need for new technology skills, specifically those related to digital, data, mobile, cyber and information security is increasing. While competition for candidates remains high, the increasing adoption of flexible working has, for now, helped broaden the hiring market potential and enabled many employers to mitigate the impact of talent shortages.
“In addition to information technology skills, employers are seeking engineers, nurses and care staff throughout the UK, reinforcing the need for continued focus on emerging skills development.”
