Labour Market Information

What is LMI?

LMI tells you about what is happening in the job market at national, regional and local levels and includes information about jobs and salaries, what skills employers are looking for in different industrial sectors, conditions, communities and future trends.

LMI can help you discover where the job opportunities are, the sectors, occupations and locations you need to look out for, and help you identify the skills you might need to develop in the future.

The world of work and employment patterns are changing rapidly. Our young people need to be aware of this and how it might affect their decisions. At Sacred Heart we are committed to providing you with the most up-to-date information, advice and guidance possible. For this reason we will be uploading updates on Labour Market Information for you to explore.

LMI includes information about the structure and working of the labour market including:

■ Jobs available and people available to do those jobs.

■ Changes in the economy and business environment.

Effects of the economy upon the labour market. Work patterns have changed in the last 30 years because of new technologies, global shifts in production and changing economic markets. It will help your child make better decisions if they are aware of:

■ the growth industries which are likely to provide more opportunities in the future.

■ industries which are in decline and therefore the number of job opportunities may reduce.

■ the skills employers look for – key skills such as IT, numeracy, communication, problem solving, adaptability, the ability to learn and team working.

■ how work patterns are changing.

■ the pressures on labour markets caused by recession. Increasing competition for jobs and places on courses means that it is important for students to have up-to-date information about trends and developments in the labour market, about the options available, the types of work or learning involved. Good information helps people make good decisions.

Working lives have changed over the last few decades. Has your son/daughter thought about the possible changes over the next 10 years? Which jobs will decrease and what are the new jobs that may arise.

Useful tips for students

■ Study job vacancies, look for common ‘transferable’ skills. Do you have these skills? If not how can you gain them?

■ Find out about the companies opening and closing in your area.

LMI can be gathered in many ways. Talk to your parents, grandparents or carers about their working experiences. Speak to the school CEIAG Advisor. Watch the news and read local newspapers.