What is Labour Market Research?

Job seekers will often struggle with knowing where to start looking for work. Going online and searching listings to see what jobs are available in town then sending off resumes is usually about as far as most people go. But doing some further investigation can answer a lot of questions and help make informed decisions to ensure your career is heading in the right direction.

Labour Market Research will tell you not only who is hiring, but can also tell you what to expect for wages, advancement policies, benefits, and job expectations.  Labour Market Research will tell you if the company runs shifts, if employees are expected to be on call, or if the work is seasonal. You can find out what skills you will need to enter a new position, qualifications or certificates you might need, where you can get any required training, and how much it will cost for that training.  

Depending on the information available, you may be able to learn about how the company interacts with community service agencies, other offices or factories they may operate or how the company gives to charity.

This type of in-depth research can really give you a step up in an interview if you mention that you have researched the company and you are already familiar with their hiring practices, policies, mandates or mission statement.  

The more informed you are, the better decisions you can make for yourself and your prospective employer, saving time and frustration for you both.