Here are some interesting facts and figures about our daily lives in NI published in September 2014.
Technology and Social Media
We love our gadgets in NI!
According to Ofcom’s Communications Report for NI, smartphone ownership is now at 55% (from 45% 12 months ago), they are most popular amongst those aged 16-34. Tablet ownership has also experienced significant growth from 9% in 2012 to 29% last year and now rising to 45% currently. These are most popular amongst those aged 35-54
And also according to Ofcom’s 2014 Adults’ Media Use and Attitudes Report, 83% of UK adults are now online, with two-thirds of those using the Internet also participating in social media
Sick Days
Our attitudes to work !
A recent survey of NI workers suggested 71% had pulled a ‘sickie’ due to a hangover, 17% to watch a sporting event, and 26% to attend a job interview! 1 in 6 also lied to take time off to enjoy the good weather.
Another good reason why we operate flexible working patterns here.
Self – employment
Self-employment has been a notable feature in this economic recovery
Previously UK’s self-employment rates were low compared to our international counterparts but now we have caught up with the European average of 14% and have actually grown faster than Western European neighbours
The IPPR policy Research Think Tank recently described the UK as fast becoming the ‘self-employment capital of Western Europe’.
In NI, more than 13,000 people have taken the leap to self-employment in the last year. Interestingly, the self-employed have made up around half of the overall increase in employment.
Personally, despite the pressures, I wouldn’t have it any other way!
And finally……
Exports
65% of micro, 50% of small and 40% of medium sized firms in Northern Ireland rely solely on domestic markets (i.e. don’t export)