There are simple steps every employer can take to tackle the "candidate shortage" in the UK.

See my top 10 below.

1/ pay what it takes to get what you need. Of course, given the significant inflation issues we are all facing, salary inflation will only add to it, as there isn't a magic money pot and your customers will no doubt expect higher prices adding to the whirlpool of inflation. You could look at your overall package too.

2/ improve how you recruit. Assuming you have the wherewithal to do so. Get an expert in if you don't (hi).

3/ improve your diversity of candidates, and inclusiveness of recruitment. If you are discounting candidates for assumptions that don't relate to their employability, now's the time to become a better recruiter. It's no easy fix.

4/ strip unnecessary bloat out of your recruitment process. If you are losing candidates because you are too slow or push them away with irrelevant assessment - time to improve how you recruit.

5/ promote from within. Of course you are already nurturing the people who will progress in their career, and not losing them to better employers. Aren't you?

6/ look at mid to long-term 'talent' pipelines - apprenticeships, graduate scheme, internal talent development etc. Not a short term fix.

7/ become an employer of choice by focusing on good employee experience and engagement. You'll see less staff attrition, greater profits and find it easier to recruit. Not a short term fix and it starts with the right leadership.

8/ headhunt candidates who aren't available to the generic recruiter. You'll need to know how to find and assess the right recruiter (hi).

9/ give your people what they need to succeed in their roles, then advertise this when recruiting. Every business is different, but if you are working at enabling your team to do their best work... see 7.

10/ improve your employer brand across on all online and offline means. Job adverts, social media, websites, exhibitions - everywhere is an opportunity to show off why are you are great place to work. Might as well do 7 too.

If you think the line that ends in a (hi) will get you what you what you need, follow the intuitive course of action.

greg.wyatt@bwrecruitment.co.uk