The UK economy may be proving exceptionally slow in emerging from recession, but this has not harmed the London’s position in the global labour market. London is the number one destination city of choice for international jobseekers, according to global research.
The survey - based on responses from 66,000 workers in 40 countries worldwide - reveals that nearly half (46%) would be willing to seek employment abroad. Among this group, the preferred city destination is London, mentioned by 22%. The next most popular cities are New York and Sydney, cited by 16% and 12% respectively.
But as regards the preferred country for international employment opportunities, the UK (mentioned by 47%) is beaten to first place by the US (52%).
A more detailed breakdown of survey respondents reveals that more than half (53%) of those considering moving to the UK to look for work are educated to degree standard.
However, the survey cautions that UK employers must be prepared for stiff competition on pay levels if they are to attract the best international candidates. More than two-thirds (68%) of those surveyed say that a good salary would represent the key factor in choosing a job abroad.
Pay is likely to prove a critical differentiator in choosing destinations, as those willing to consider for international job searches tend to be extremely flexible: nearly one-third of survey participants cite more than 10 countries in which they would be willing to work.
