92% of construction and property employers struggle to find skilled staff – Hays UK

The latest Hays UK Salary Guide found 92% of construction and property employers are struggling to find skilled staff, while 70% are planning to recruit in the next year. 

More than half of professionals are looking to change jobs, with factors like workload, flexibility and career progression now as important as pay.

The guide found 39% of professionals are unhappy with their salary, even though pay rises have kept up with inflation. 

Around 65% are working beyond their contracted hours and only 45% are happy with their work-life balance. 

Over half said they would take a pay cut to improve their work-life balance. 

Two thirds said they are open to hiring candidates who do not fully meet the criteria and upskilling them in the role.

Brendan Ryan, director for construction and property at Hays, said: “With over half of construction and property professionals planning to move jobs within the next year, and flexibility ranking alongside pay as a top priority, employers who offer competitive salaries, hybrid options, and clear career pathways will be best placed to secure and retain the skilled talent this sector urgently needs.”