Recent research by total jobs has revealed that the vast majority of public sector workers (90%) would recommend a career in public service to graduates and school leavers, indicating that the future of public sector recruitment looks positive despite budget cuts. The survey of 2,500 public sector workers cited a positive working culture as the most attractive aspect of getting a job in the sector. Over half (53%) pointed to other benefits such as holiday and flexi time as further assets.

However, whilst many public sector employees praise the working environment and support they receive, they are having to reassess their positions because of a real-term cut in pay. Over a quarter say that they are looking to move to the private sector because of the perception the pay is better.

Mike Booker Director of Public Sector at totaljobs said of the findings:

“Our research suggests that there are still opportunities out there for very rewarding careers in the public sector. Articulating this to jobseekers is the challenge for recruiters as there is a misconception that the public sector offers few opportunities and increases are scant. We want to reassure jobseekers that there are still opportunities out there – our research with the CEBR earlier this year revealed there will be 1.5 million job vacancies to fill in the sector between now and 2017.”

The research also shows that jobseekers are finding the application process challenging; 21% of those surveyed said they submit over 20 job applications per month, yet nearly half (49%) do not get invited to a single interview.

Mr. Booker continues: “We’re not under the allusion that jobseeking in the public sector is a straight-forward process. Many are finding it difficult to even get an interview, while others are looking to the private sector for better pay. It’s vital that public sector organisations remain attractive to current employees and prospective jobseekers in order to retain and recruit the best talent.”