The number of new jobs being posted has declined dramatically over the past year as firms rein in their hiring plans in light of ongoing economic uncertainty. That’s according to the latest data from the world’s largest network of job boards, Broadbean Technology.

The firm’s latest data shows that the number of new roles has fallen by 22 percent year-on-year, with employers reluctant to increase headcount as a result of ongoing economic challenges. Despite the slowdown in hiring, skills shortages are still impacting firms, with the number of new applications for jobs also down 20 percent year-on-year.

“The data clearly shows that firms are reining in their hiring which, perhaps given the current climate is unsurprising. However, the recent fall in applications during this period should be a concern for employers, particularly those looking to take on staff on short-term contracts to help them cover the busy holiday period in the next few weeks,” comments Alex Fourlis, Managing Director of Broadbean Technology.