Relevant previous work experience is a key factor in getting jobs in Christchurch, says a Canterbury University team.

This is stated in the first preliminary report prepared for the Christchurch City Council’s Mayoral Taskforce on Poverty.

The report was prepared by Dr Paul Dalziel, senior lecturer in economics, Dr Jane Higgins, lecturer in sociology, and Michael Drummond, tutor in economics.

Their research was undertaken against a background of concern that a shortage of qualified and experienced workers is restricting employment and business growth in Christchurch.

The research by the university team set out to quantify the extent of the shortage.

Three points stand out of the research team’s initial analysis.

* Experience is important.

* An absence of qualifications and experience is likely to be causing problems for many job seekers.

* There appears to be a shortage, although not severe, of qualified and experienced workers in Christchurch.

Of the employers surveyed only 4 per cent said it was impossible to fill an advertised vacancy. Just over two-thirds of employers surveyed regarded previous relevant experience as a key factor when it came to filling a vacancy. This compared with just over a third of advertised positions identifying formal qualifications as a requirement.

Employers said they were requiring relevant work experience before a job was offered.

The researchers will provide a fuller analysis in a later report and this is expected to be released next month.

Further information: Dr Paul Dalziel, University of Canterbury: 364 2134.

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