Before I left for Australia there was a large amount of discussion around the New Zealand ‘brain drain’ and having come back it is still a topic that is being discussed in the New Zealand business environment. I would question whether a brain drain really exists or really whether it is just a case of demand for skilled talent outstrips supply?
A couple of weeks ago Statistics New Zealand released figures that 28,000 kiwi’s went to Australia last year.
On investigation it appears that a quarter leaving the country for Australia were actually under the age of 15 and the majority of the migrants that were of adult age were in ‘blue collar’ or ‘no collar’ type roles.
Other than Australia, all other countries to New Zealand had a ‘net inflow’ of permanent and long term migrants with the largest being from the United Kingdom.
So, if there is simply not enough population in New Zealand then what can business leaders to ensure that they grow their organisation?
I believe New Zealand managers need to look at ways that they can attract diversity in a market of very low unemployment. This may be simply through creating a flexible working environment, enabling home access or offering facilities like on-site childcare.
From a hiring point of view managers need to also be open to looking outside of New Zealand to attract staff for more senior roles. They need to look to the recruiter they work with and ask for solutions that are outside of posting an advertisement and hoping they find the best candidate.
The reality is that we are now in a ‘global war’ for talent and businesses that recognise this will ensure they continue to grow and stay ahead of their competition.
