Occupational barometer

The occupational barometer is a qualitative method of forecasting short-term labour demand by occupation.
The estimates are compiled by the regional departments of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, which involve external experts wherever possible.

Labour demand forecasts look at two indicators. Firstly, an evaluation is made of how employers' demand for labour force will change in the next 12 months, and especially how employers' demand for specific occupations will change. Will it increase, decrease or remain unchanged? Secondly, the balance between labour supply and demand after the next 12 months is evaluated: what will the ratio be between the existing labour force on the labour market and employers' demand by occupation? Will there be a labour surplus, labour shortage or a balance in occupations on the labour market?

We evaluate general trends on the labour market, which means that the barometer does not take seasonality into account. We base our estimates on the employers' perspective. You can find out more about the methodology of forecasting labour demand under the section „Methodology“.