RECRUITMENT experts have warned that a new breed of "mercenary candidates" is operating in the North West, cashing in on low unemployment and an abundance of vacancies.

Clerical and IT jobs are being particularly hit as staff job-hop in search of better pay and perks.

Recruitment firm HMI Accountability said businesses looking to expand were being affected by the growing skills shortage in the region.

David Gunnings, operations director, said: "In high unemployment, businesses can put an advert in the local paper and attract responses from all the candidates they require.

"When unemployment is low and during a national skills shortage, a more targeted and imaginative approach is often required..

'The problem is that a candidate shortage will always have an impact on salaries and benefits, which, in turn, can make people increasingly mercenary.

"Where there is a lack of job satisfaction, they know they can go elsewhere for more money and perks."