Elisabeth Leduc : “Training Jobseekers to Address Labour Shortages: An Experimental Study on Information Barriers”

ROOM : P02

Abstract : “We explore whether labour shortages can be addressed through a low-cost information intervention on shortage occupations and related trainings. We implement a large-scale field experiment in cooperation with a Public Employment Service, in which we inform 100,000 recently unemployed jobseekers about shortage occupations and available training programs. Using survey and administrative data, we estimate the effect of the information intervention on training intentions and enrolment, as well as job search and employment. Our (preliminary) findings show that although the treatment email increased intentions to enrol in trainings, it had limited effects on actual training behaviour or employment.”