Results emphasize the need for a combination of recruitment of fresh talent from outside the sector and upgrading the skills of existing staff.

The global recruitment partner Petroplan’s survey on Talent Insight Index 2017 has revealed that the oil and gas industry is facing skill shortages among workers, with many professionals intending to move jobs to other sectors as a potential career choice.

The survey emphasises the need for a combination of recruitment of fresh talent from outside the sector and upgrading the skills of existing staff.

The survey, ‘Talent Insight Index: an annual barometer for the oil, gas and energy industry’, gathered information from more than 2,000 industry professionals including permanent employees, contractors and people who are actively looking for roles in the oil and gas industry.

According to the survey, 22 percent of respondents said the industry lacked the right talent for its growth.

More than a third of respondents agreed that the emergence of digitization and big data has increased the role of technological advances, with the growing need to develop IT skills in the industry.
Non-salary benefits such as health coverage and pensions can play a crucial role in preventing oil and gas workers moving , the survey found.

Many respondents said the industry downturn of the last two years has had some beneficial side-effects, with almost half of the respondents hoping for improved decision-making, greater innovation and scope to increase productivity.

Rory Ferguson, CEO at Petroplan, said, “The results of the Talent Insight Index show a clear opportunity for both the oil and gas industry and specialist recruiters. Companies need to build an employer brand that stands out, by offering training and a variety of work opportunities to existing staff and new hires and contractors as well as permanent employees.”

Image: Petroplan