Job applications dropped in Sheffield, Hull and Leeds during August

The study by the independent job board, CV-Library, found that the number of job applications dropped by 14.7% in Sheffield, 9.8% in Leeds and 5.5% in Hull during August.

The job board analysed data from its site throughout August and compared the findings with data from August 2019 and July 2020.

A spokesman said: "Interestingly, it shows that job applications fell across the UK last month, with Sheffield, Leeds and Hull experiencing the second, fourth and ninth largest drop in applications respectively:"

The biggest drop in the UK was in Cardiff, where applications fell by 15.4%.

The statement added: "Despite more people being out of work, the findings show that applications are also down significantly year-on-year. They dropped by 22.2% in Hull and by 12.5% in Leeds. That said, they did rise by 2.2% in Sheffield.

"When looking at advertised jobs, the findings show that adverts dropped by 7.7% in Hull and by 2.7% in Sheffield last month; but rose by 5.1% in Leeds. In addition to this, year-on-year data reveals even bigger drops in job adverts across all three cities; with figures falling by 45.8% in Leeds, 37% in Sheffield and by 28.8% in Hull."

Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library comments: “It’s surprising that applications have dropped so significantly in these Yorkshire cities; especially given that the government’s Job Retention Scheme is coming to an end in a matter of weeks now.

"However, the fact that there are less jobs being advertised may have contributed. It's important to remember that August is typically a slower month for recruitment, which could explain the subtle drop in job postings in Sheffield. If you are actively looking for work, or are concerned that you may lose your job once the furlough scheme is over, it’s important to use this time to your advantage.”

The data also reveals that salaries have dropped by 9.7% in Sheffield, 4.6% in Leeds and 4.2% in Hull, when looking at month-on-month data.

Mr Biggins added “If you’re looking for a new job this month, you need to get applying now. Whatever your age or circumstance, September tends to come with a ‘back to school’ feeling, where many job seekers will refocus their efforts on finding a new role. Unfortunately, this means you don’t have much time before competition ramps back up.