by Trevor Sturgess

Job prospects in Kent, especially in hospitality, are looking better, according to a new survey.

The Manpower Employment Outlook Survey reveals that south east employers are planning to increase staffing levels over the next three months.

In one of the first recruitment surveys since the General Election, businesses are more positive about the outlook for taking on people.

In the south east, at +9 per cent, the outlook is four percentage points stronger than the previous three months, and 10 percentage points greater than a year ago.

It is significantly stronger than the national average of +1 per cent.

Paul Laurie, Manpower's operations manager, said that while the public sector had been hit hard by recruitment squeezes, demand for experienced sales advisors across a range of sectors was significant as businesses sought to stay competitive.

"There is also a real need for secretaries right now, as companies look to invest in skilled professionals post-recession, and in Kent we're seeing specific roles emerge within the hospitality sector - due in part to the close proximity of the Eurostar," he said.

He added: "When considering hiring, employers are increasingly focussed on the added value and new skill sets that prospective employees can offer.

"For jobseekers, this means the value of training - coupled with industry knowledge and experience - should not be underestimated.

"Those who are flexible in their job search, considering work experience, temporary roles or spending time up-skilling in the short-term will reap longer-term advantages."