Training is being used as a key method of attracting staff, according to research from the Recruitment Confidence Index.

The RCI survey found that almost all employers (90%) believe training impacts their business' bottom line and two in three now include skills training in job offers to prospective employees.

One in three employers surveyed predicted major changes in their skill needs over the next two years and more than three in four organisations said they would be increasing the amount of training they offer staff, to meet skill gaps.

Prof Shaun Tyson of Cranfield School of Management, which carries out the RCI research, said: "The research implies that employers see themselves investing more in individual employees' development.

"In a way, this is a reaction not just to changing skill needs but also to labour shortages."

Stephen Gardner, Director of Work-based Learning at the Learning and Skills Council, which sponsored the research special said: "The results reinforce existing research which has shown that the skills required for jobs are changing.

"Employers should start to address this shortfall by training existing staff through work-based programmes such as apprenticeships tailored to their specific business needs.

"Too many are trying to fill the skills gap by recruiting skills rather than through education and training."