Infozone: the briefing – 16/04/10
STAFF DEMAND GROWING SLOWLY
Demand for hospitality staff is growing - but at a slower rate than any other sector, research has revealed.
The latest Report on Jobs by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation and KPMG, shows the number of permanent staff placements on offer grew rapidly in February, reaching its strongest level since July 2007. It is the strongest recorded monthly growth since the survey began in October 1997.
The report revealed that cheffing is one of the professions in which there is a lack of both permanent and temporary job-seekers with the key skills needed.
EMPLOYERS WARNED ON DRESS CODE
Employers are failing to exercise caution when implementing and enforcing dress codes at work, employment experts have warned. The warning comes after Shirley Chaplin lost her case against Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Trust Hospital after a tribunal ruled that it was reasonable to require her to take off her Christian necklace for health and safety reasons.
Claire McCartney, organisation and resourcing adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, said: "Employers need to think carefully about dress code policies, keeping them broad and flexible. If any changes need to be made they have to be clear and consult on issues such as religious wear."
LOW-COST, NO-COST BENEFITS
Non-financial rewards can help to retain staff when there is no money for salary increases, according to Sean Wheeler, group director of people development at Malmaison and Hotel du Vin.
The recession has seen the group focusing on shopping discounts, foot treatment, childcare vouchers and staff discount rates. He said: "We have had no pay rises for two years, so have been actively looking at ‘low-cost, no-cost' benefits."
