Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0
Series: Tinbergen Institute Discussion Papers
Creation-Date: 2025-02-28
Number: 25-014/V
Author-Name: Elisabeth Leduc
Author-Workplace-Name: Erasmus University Rotterdam and Tinbergen Institute
Author-Name: Ilan Tojerow
Author-Workplace-Name: Université Libre de Bruxelles
Title: Closing the Mismatch: Encouraging Jobseekers to Reskill for Shortage Occupations
Abstract: We partner with a Public Employment Service to examine whether jobseekers can be encouraged to reskill for shortage occupations. In a large-scale field experiment involving 100,000 recently unemployed individuals, we provide information on shortage occupations and related training opportunities. The intervention increased participation in transversal training courses by 6%, but did not boost enrolment in occupational training for shortage jobs. Jobseekers also shifted their search towards high-demand occupations, yet employment remained unchanged. These findings suggest that while low-cost informational interventions can influence job search and training behaviour, different approaches are likely needed to drive substantial reskilling among jobseekers.
Classification-JEL: J24, J68
Keywords: Unemployment, Job Search, RCT, Occupational Training, Labour Shortages
File-URL: https://papers.tinbergen.nl/25014.pdf
File-Format: application/pdf
File-Size: 807.572 bytes
Handle: RePEc:tin:wpaper:20250014