Figures* out this week show that people are half as likely to be leaving their jobs as they were 13 years ago and this has impacted on the number of permanent places available for those that are searching for a new position. With such a contracted market, the opportunities are limited although temporary and contract work has increased over the last two months.

According to the ONS, 2.4% of workers in the UK left their main job in 2011 compared to 4.5% in 1998 with the most common reason being due to redundancy due to the recession (no surprises there) or people resigning due to a variety of reasons.

So if you’re searching for a new role; all the more reason to be very focused and specific about what you’re looking for and make sure your search is extremely targeted. A proactive approach is essential. Identify the top 10 companies you want to work for and why. Use contacts where you’ve got them or a good search and selection agency who specialise in your area of expertise. They’ll know the right people to approach or will already be aware of positions that are coming up. Things are moving slowly these days but there are still some good opportunities out there so maintaining a positive mindset will get you there.

*Report on Jobs by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) and KPMG and the Office for National Statistics (ONS)