Reference metadata describe statistical concepts and methodologies used for the collection and generation of data. They provide information on data quality and, since they are strongly content-oriented, assist users in interpreting the data. Reference metadata, unlike structural metadata, can be decoupled from the data.
The data is intended to take timely measures on the labour market since we measure differences between the supply and demand in the labour market, which is reflected in the job vacancies offered and in the number of occupied posts. The data is also important for assessing the need for employers to employ new workers. Besides the number of job vacancies and occupied posts by sector of activity and by the size of the business entity, the job vacancy rate by sector of activity is also published.
The survey is implemented on the basis of the National Statistics Act (OJ RS, No. 45/95 and 9/01), the current Annual Programme of Statistical Surveys and on the basis of Commission Regulation (EC) No 1062/2008 of 28 October 2008 and implementing Regulation (EC) No 453/2008 of the European Parliament of the Council on quarterly statistics on Community job vacancies, as regards seasonal adjustment procedures and quality reports.
2.2. Classification system
The quarterly data is broken down by economic activity (at section level) by NACE Rev. 2 - Statistical classification of economic activities in the European Community.
2.3. Coverage - sector
Included are all economic activities defined by NACE Rev.2, from B to S. The following fields of activity are not included:
(A) Agriculture, forestry and fishing activities (it is optional in the JVS framework regulation),
(T) The activities of households as employers and the activities of extraterritorial organisations and bodies.
2.4. Statistical concepts and definitions
A job vacancy is defined as a paid post that is newly created, unoccupied, or about to become vacant:
for which the employer is taking active steps and is prepared to take further steps to find a suitable candidate from outside the enterprise concerned; and
which the employer intends to fill either immediately or within a specific period of time.
Active steps to find a suitable candidate include:
notifying the job vacancy to the public employment services,
contacting a private employment agency/head hunters,
advertising the vacancy in the media (for example internet, newspapers, magazines),
advertising the vacancy on a public notice board,
approaching, interviewing or selecting possible candidates/potential recruits directly,
approaching employees and/or personal contacts,
using internships.
Specific period of time refers to the maximum time the vacancy is open and intended to be filled. That period shall be unlimited; all vacancies for which active steps are continuing on the reference date shall be reported.
An occupied post means a paid post within the organisation to which an employee has been assigned.
2.5. Statistical unit
The statistical unit is a business unit (Legal unit).
2.6. Statistical population
The statistical population includes business entities as a whole, registered on the territory of the Republic of Slovenia which had at least one employed person when the sample was prepared. Natural persons who have no employees besides themselves are not the target population. Included are business entities with registered main activity by NACE Rev.2 classification from B to S.
2.7. Reference area
The reference area is the territory of the Republic of Slovenia.
2.8. Coverage - Time
From 2001 onwards, with a break in the time series in the first quarter of 2015.
2.9. Base period
Not relevant.
3.1. Source data
Identification of the source of the data
Since 2015, SURS has been collecting job vacancy data independently with a sample survey except for the public sector. The source for job vacancies in the public sector is the Employment Service of Slovenia (ESS) - (form: "PDM-1 Report of job vacancy"). This source is also used to control the data of the units which were included in the sample and it also reported the job vacancies at the Employment Service of Slovenia to provide the public notice.
The source for the data on the number of occupied posts is the monthly survey Persons in Employment (DAK), and the data for this survey are primarily taken from the Statistical Register of Employment (SRDAP). Data refer to the whole population and are not calculated on the basis of a sample.
The source for persons who are recipients of parental compensation (persons on maternity leave) is the Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities.
The source for persons who are on long-term sick leave more than 30 working days is the National Institute of Public Health.
Coverage
Geographical
The Republic of Slovenia
NACE
Included are business entities with registered main activity from B to S. Business entities with registered main activity A - agriculture, forestry and fishing are not included.
Enterprise size
Business entities with at least one employed person, when the sample was prepared (the reference month for persons in employment is October of the previous year).
Definition of the statistical unit
Statistical unit is a business entity as a whole, registered on the territory of the Republic of Slovenia which had at least one employed person when the sample was prepared. Natural persons who have no employees besides themselves are not the target population.
Remarks
Occupied posts: The number of occupied posts includes persons employed by legal or natural persons. Since September 2009 posted workers (workers sent abroad to work or study) are also included. Since 1 January 2020 posts occupied by persons employed by two or more employers at the same time up to the maximum full-time (40 hours per week) have been included.
Excluded are:
persons who are recipients of parental compensation (persons on maternity leave) - since January 2008 and
persons who are on long-term sick leave which is longer than 30 working days - since January 2013.
Sampling design
Base used for the sample
Some basic data regarding the Statistical Business Register, which is the basis for the preparation of the sample (for the last three years).
No.
2022
2023
2024
1
Business entities registered in Business Register of Slovenia (total population)
230,215
237,995
244,444
2
Business entities with at least one person in employment (master sampling frame)
65,757
66,417
66,857
3
Busines entities included in JV sample (number)
8,294
8,056
7,929
4
Share of business entities included in JV sample
12.6%
12.1%
11.9%
5
The number of busines entities in public sector (mandatory reporting JV to Employment Services of Slovenia)
3,221
3,227
3,197
6
Busines entities included in JV sample - Total (No. 3+5)
11,515
11,283
11,126
7
Share of business entities included in JV sample - Total
17.5%
17.0%
16.6%
Sampling design
The number of business entities in the master sampling frame, the number of business entities included in the JV sample and the number of business entities in public sector (covered by administrative data source) by fields of activities, Slovenia, 2024
Activity
Master sampling frame
JV sample
Share (in %)
Public sector
Total
66,857
5,624
11.9
3,197
B
MINING AND QUARRYING
64
64
100.0
6
C
MANUFACTURING
9,502
774
8.1
32
D
ELECTRICITY, GAS, STEAM AND AIR CONDITIONING SUPPLY
180
56
31.1
41
E
WATER SUPPLY, SEWERAGE, WASTE MANAGEMENT AND REMEDIATION ACTIVITIES
187
187
100.0
82
F
CONSTRUCTION
10,991
1,043
9.5
14
G
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE, REPAIR OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES
12,355
808
6.5
37
H
TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
4,501
555
12.3
22
I
ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD SERVICE ACTIVITIES
5,317
460
8.7
27
J
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
2,895
448
15.5
32
K
FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE ACTIVITIES
707
166
23.5
21
L
REAL ESTATE ACTIVITIES
1,291
497
38.5
37
M
PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES
9,832
1,262
12.8
142
N
ADMINISTRATIVE AND SUPPORT SERVICE ACTIVITIES
2,362
263
11.1
31
O
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND DEFENCE, COMPULSORY SOCIAL SECURITY
.
.
.
1,339
P
EDUCATION
991
95
9.6
851
Q
HUMAN HEALTH AND SOCIAL WORK ACTIVITIES
2,044
146
7.1
214
R
ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION
1,022
362
35.4
241
S
OTHER SERVICE ACTIVITIES
2,616
743
28.4
28
Since 2024Q1, some improvements have been introduced to define the target population of business entities. Business entities whose main activity is registered in sector E - Water supply, sewage, waste management and remediation activities, were included with certainty (all units). In this way, we avoided the less accurate estimates that were more often made in the past. Until now, only business entities in activity B - Mining, have been included with certainty. Furthermore, excluded were business entities where only one person was employed part-time (up to 10 hours per week) and this person was over 64 years old. By Slovenian legislation, a retired person can be reactivated. He or she can work up to ¼ of the working time and at the same time receive 75% of the pension. Based on past responses from the field, we estimate that these are not appropriate units which would employ new people.
Retention/renewal of sampling units
The job vacancy sample is the same throughout the year and doesn't change between quarters. While units for the public sector are added for each quarter separately according to the registration in the Business Register. Their number changes slightly between quarters.
Sample size
The total size of the sample (including units for the public sector) was 11,126 business entities in the first quarter of 2024 which represents 16.6% of all business entities with at least one person in employment.
Stratification
The stratification of business entities was made according to five sizes (strata). The table shows the number of business entities selected in the sample according to the size (stratum) for the last three years. For the last reference year, the share of included units regarding to the total sample size is also shown.
Stratum
Size of the stratum and the type of selection
Number of business entities included in the sample
Share for 2024 (%)
2022
2023
2024
0
1 person in employment (Random selection)
1,828
1,842
1,882
23.7
1
2 to 9 persons in employment (Random selection)
2,922
3,009
2,999
37.8
2
10 to 49 persons in employment (Random selection)
2,055
1,67
1,526
19.2
3
50 to 249 persons in employment (The entire population)
1,277
1,312
1,304
16.4
4
250 or more persons in employment (The entire population)
212
223
218
2.7
Total
8,294
8,056
7,929
100.0
Other sources
Maintenance agency
Maintenance agencies are included in the sample. They report only job vacancies for themselves (person will be employed by the agency, but he or she can be sent to work to subscriber).
Updating frequency
The sample is updated quarterly. Units that are terminated in the Business Register during the next quarter or that are officially in the process of bankruptcy or liquidation are flagged as ineligible units. Companies established during the reference year are not included in the sample until the next year.
Rules for clearance (of outdated information)
Data is collected once per quarter on a reference date. The reporting units include only the current job vacancies for which they are actively looking for candidates outside of their organization.
Voluntary/compulsory reporting and sanctions
For business entities that are included in the JV sample, it is mandatory to report, according to the National Statistics Act. Sanctions are not implemented, as we are trying to convince units to participate in the survey.
Remarks
3.2. Frequency of data collection
Reference dates
Data is collected quarterly. Reporting date for job vacancies is the last working day in the middle month of the reference quarter. The reference dates for job vacancies in 2024 were:
Quarter
Reference Date
2023Q1
Thursday, 29 February 2024
2023Q2
Friday, 31 May 2024
2023Q3
Friday, 30 August 2024
2023Q4
Friday, 29 November 2024
The occupied posts refer to the last day in the middle month of the reference quarter. Before 2015 the average of the three months was used (as the situation on the last day of the month) for occupied posts and for job vacancies as well.
3.3. Data collection
Brief description of the data collection method(s)
In 2015, SURS began to collect the job vacancy data independently with a sample survey. For reporting units the following channels are available to report the data:
by the e-STAT (WEB application),
by CATI (interview by phone),
by taking over the data collected by the ESS (employers in the public sector and state-owned companies).
Data collection begins on the reference day. The reporting units have 14 days to report data via the e-STAT application (WEB). After this first period, a list of units with non-response is prepared. These units we call in the next two weeks to obtain the missing information (CATI).
3.4. Data validation
Since 2017 data validation is implemented with SOP – generalized tool (system) for statistical data processing at SURS.
3.5. Data compilation
Brief description of the weighting method
Weighting dimensions
With weighting adjustment, we want to achieve representativeness of the sample so that the weighted data gives us as good population estimates as possible. The process of weighting depends on the sampling design, the unit non-response rate and available auxiliary variables used for calibration. The final weight is the product of the sampling weight, the non-response weight and the calibration factor. The results represent an estimate of the total target population. The process of weighting depends on the sampling design, the unit non-response rate and available auxiliary variables used for calibration. The final weight is the product of the sampling weight, the non-response weight and the calibration factor.
In this survey, the final (population) weight consists of three types of weights: - Sample weight, - Non-response weight, - Calibration (adjustment to population values).
The first two types of weights are calculated based on the strata from the sample (both size classes and activities) obtained from the frame. The last (population) weight is calculated on the basis of newly collected data: statistical activities (SKD_ST_OBD_ID1) and size classes, using the number of occupied posts (ZDM_STEV) from the collected data. The population weight therefore includes quarterly updated information on statistical activity and size classes (strata), calculated on the basis of the number of occupied posts.
3.6. Adjustment
Data on the number of JV and occupied posts are seasonally adjusted. The time series according to NACE Rev.2 includes fields of activity from B - S, namely from the first quarter of 2008 onwards.
For seasonal adjustment of time series, we use JDemetra+ 2.2.0 software, i.e. the TRAMO/SEATS method. A time series model is set up, which is revised in detail about once a year, taking into account the period available at that time. If the model is changed, we strive to minimize the changes. Models for seasonal adjustment were reviewed in the 3rd quarter of 2022 and the models were changed for individual areas, some activities were added, and some no longer have a seasonal impact and the models are no longer needed.
Detailed information is described at point 6.4 on seasonal adjustment.
4.1. Quality assurance
Not applicable
4.2. Quality management - assessment
In the JV survey, we estimate that we have achieved a high level of quality despite the nature of the specific phenomenon that is observed and regarding which data are being collected. Namely, job vacancies have become quite rare, as fewer than a tenth of the units are looking for new employees in the month. The survey covers all fields of activity required by the regulation. Units with more than 50 employees are included with certainty, i.e. without a coverage threshold, as well as units with main activity B or E. Enterprises from the public sector for which an administrative data source is available are added to the sample. The final sample size represents around 17% of the target population.
Reporting units have more channels through which they can report the data. This contributes to a high response rate, which is about 96%. Every year, all sections involved in the survey meet in a special “coordination meeting”. Based on previous implementations, we examine if there were some difficulties and try to improve them in the future. The survey includes variables to calculate the data needed for reporting at national and international levels. The data are presented in the prescribed formats, respecting all reporting deadlines, and as such, they are internationally comparable. If the coefficient of variation (CV) of the estimate by individual field of activity is in the interval from 10% up to 30%, the estimate is less precise and it is flagged for caution with (u) - low reliability and if CV is over 30% the data is not published.
5.1. Relevance - User Needs
Description of the national users and their main needs
Remarks
Communication between users of statistical data and SURS takes place at the level of the Labour Statistics Advisory Committee, which meets approximately once a year and a half. The Committee is chaired by a person who is not employed by SURS, and it includes members - experts from the public sector (ZZZS, ZRSZ, ZPIZ, UMAR, NIJZ, Bank of Slovenia, Ministry of Finance, MDDSZ, etc.) and representatives of other institutions (Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia, Association of Employers of Slovenia, etc.). Subject-matter experts working at SURS are also included. The last, 16th session of the Committee took place on 27 March 2024; materials and minutes are available at the link below.
Communication with individual reporting units takes place via the Call Centre at SURS and with users of statistical data via the Information Centre, directly by telephone, fax or e-mail.
The Employment Service of Slovenia published monthly data as a cumulative sum of the data from the first day of the month to the last day of the month. Included are data for business entities that want to carry out mandatory public disclosure of information through the ESS. Since mid-April 2013, the ESS has been publishing data on job vacancies reported by employers if they wish to carry out a public notice via their e-services. In this way, collected and published data are not representative and do not allow a comprehensive view of the supply of vacancies in Slovenia. The Statistical Office of Slovenia published quarterly data collected by the sample survey. Because of the mentioned methodological differences, the published data differ from the data published by the ESS. Users have at their disposal the same information, but published by different methodologies depending on what data they need for their further analyses
Extent to which the needs of national users are satisfied (voluntary)
Remarks
By regularly monitoring user satisfaction and needs, SURS continuously strives to improve its products and services. The 2024 user satisfaction survey shows that overall satisfaction and trust increased compared with 2023. Respondents rated their overall satisfaction at 8.4 on a 1–10 scale (compared to 8.0 the year 2023). In 2020, it was 8.1, and in 2018 it was 7.5.
Description of missing variables and missing breakdowns of the variables
Report progress on the implementation measures regarding quarterly job vacancies statistics of Regulation (EC) No 453/2008, including :
a detailed plan and timetable for completing implementation
a summary of the remaining deviations from EU concepts
There are no missing values in the quarterly data. All mandatory data required by the Regulation are collected and reported.
There are no deviations from EU concepts.
5.3.1. Data completeness - rate
The ratio of the number of data cells provided to the number of data cells required is 100%. All data cells for the JVS dataset are available and transmitted by EDAMIS.
6.1. Accuracy - overall
Estimates are calculated only for job vacancies because data are collected on a sample basis. Estimates are published at the level of Slovenia, by fields of activity (B–S) and according to the size of the business entity (with 10 or more employees). Estimates for occupied posts are not calculated because the data are based on full coverage.
6.2. Sampling error
See below
6.2.1. Sampling error - indicators
Coefficient of variation (taking into account the sampling design) or estimated sampling error for the number of job vacancies (see guidelines).
The time series of the average coefficient of variation by size of the business entities:
Year
Total
10+
2016
4.2%
3.4%
2017
3.5%
3.3%
2018
3.1%
2.7%
2019
4.6%
2.7%
2020
4.6%
3.2%
2021
3.8%
2.9%
2022
3.1%
2.6%
2023
3.2%
3.0%
2024
3.6%
2.6%
Coefficient of variation by fields of activities and by size of the business entities, Slovenia, quarterly
Activity
Total
10+
2024Q1
2024Q2
2024Q3
2024Q4
2024Q1
2024Q2
2024Q3
2024Q4
TOTAL (B to S)
3.0%
2.9%
3.2%
3.8%
2.7%
2.9%
2.8%
3.7%
B MINING AND QUARRYING
1.2%
0.0%
0.0%
7.4%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
8.1%
C MANUFACTURING
6.7%
7.2%
7.8%
11.4%
6.6%
6.9%
7.6%
11.7%
D ELECTRICITY, GAS, STEAM AND AIR CONDITIONING SUPPLY
7.0%
12.4%
6.2%
5.4%
5.8%
3.0%
1.9%
5.5%
E WATER SUPPLY, SEWERAGE, WASTE MANAGEMENT AND REMEDIATION ACTIVITIES
5.7%
4.7%
24.6%
33.6%
2.1%
1.0%
25.5%
36.4%
F CONSTRUCTION
8.4%
8.1%
8.2%
11.2%
8.4%
9.9%
11.1%
11.0%
G WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE, REPAIR OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES
9.7%
8.7%
13.4%
8.2%
4.2%
4.5%
5.5%
6.0%
H TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
8.5%
11.0%
11.0%
7.5%
10.0%
13.7%
14.1%
7.1%
I ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD SERVICE ACTIVITIES
9.0%
7.8%
9.3%
10.9%
7.0%
8.0%
8.5%
10.6%
J INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
9.6%
7.9%
7.7%
9.7%
9.7%
7.4%
7.2%
10.0%
K FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE ACTIVITIES
13.1%
7.9%
6.6%
7.9%
13.9%
6.0%
3.1%
4.2%
L REAL ESTATE ACTIVITIES
9.2%
10.5%
13.9%
19.6%
5.6%
8.4%
6.1%
5.8%
M PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES
10.0%
9.1%
10.5%
12.6%
8.1%
7.5%
9.1%
7.8%
N ADMINISTRATIVE AND SUPPORT SERVICE ACTIVITIES
10.1%
11.2%
9.4%
9.5%
9.2%
12.1%
9.9%
10.3%
O PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND DEFENCE, COMPULSORY SOCIAL SECURITY
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
P EDUCATION
7.7%
3.1%
2.7%
9.1%
2.2%
1.8%
2.0%
5.8%
Q HUMAN HEALTH AND SOCIAL WORK ACTIVITIES
5.1%
5.7%
5.6%
5.1%
4.2%
4.4%
5.0%
3.8%
R ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION
14.5%
8.6%
11.9%
8.9%
8.2%
9.3%
14.0%
8.7%
S OTHER SERVICE ACTIVITIES
8.8%
9.0%
8.8%
10.5%
9.5%
8.9%
8.0%
7.4%
B to S
3.0%
2.9%
3.2%
3.8%
2.7%
2.9%
2.8%
3.7%
B to E
6.5%
6.9%
7.4%
10.7%
6.3%
6.6%
7.2%
10.8%
G to I
5.6%
5.3%
7.6%
5.2%
4.0%
5.0%
5.2%
4.2%
M_N
7.4%
7.7%
7.0%
7.6%
7.0%
9.1%
7.1%
7.5%
OTQ
3.7%
2.9%
2.5%
4.0%
2.6%
2.2%
2.1%
2.7%
R_S
7.9%
6.4%
7.1%
7.5%
6.5%
6.4%
8.5%
5.7%
B to F
5.3%
5.3%
5.5%
7.8%
5.1%
5.5%
6.1%
8.3%
B to N
3.3%
3.3%
3.7%
4.2%
3.0%
3.4%
3.5%
4.4%
6.3. Non-sampling error
Information on variables with non-negligible measurement and processing errors
Information on main sources of (non-negligible) measurement and processing errors and, if available, on methods applied for correction
Estimation bias: An assessment of the non-sampling errors, in terms of the absolute number of vacant posts, for the total number of job vacancies and, where possible, for aggregation level of NACE Rev. 2 specified in Annex 1 to this Regulation and size classes (1-9, 10 + employees).
Remarks
The National Statistical Office has no information on variables with non-negligible measurement and processing errors.
Not applicable
Not applicable
6.3.1. Coverage error
Description of any difference between the reference population and the study population
Description of classification errors
Description of any difference between the reference dates and the reference quarter
Any other relevant information
When the sample frame is being prepared, the last available data on the number of persons in paid employment is from October of the previous year. This can be a source of differences in population because the sample remains the same for all four quarters. Business units registered during the year are not included in the survey. Undercoverage could be represented by units that were registered in the Business Register of Slovenia at the time of sample preparation (before the beginning of the calendar year), but at the end of October of the same year did not have any employees (yet). Perhaps the person was employed later and at that very moment, the unit as such potentially becomes the target population of this survey. Undercoverage also occurs if the business entity is established after the sample was prepared within the reference year. The condition for undercoverage is not only the registration of a business entity, but also at least one employee. For 2017, we analyzed how many new business entities were established during the year and how long after the establishment the first person is employed (if at all). There were 6,952 newly created business entities in 2017, of which 5,400 (or 78%) had no employees at the end of 2017. This confirms that employers need some time to start up before they actually hire any person and become a potential observation unit in this survey.
The activity of the business entity is overtaken by the Business Register of Slovenia, no classification errors are expected. Other classifications are not used.
Reference days were carefully planned according to the Slovenian calendar of holidays and non-working days.
6.3.1.1. Over-coverage - rate
The average over-coverage rate was the highest in 2023 (1.33%) in the observed period. The number of non-compliant units is cumulative, so it is always the highest in the last quarter. The table shows the data on the number of all units in the frame and the number of ineligible units in it. The number of units that represent over-coverage can be divided into those units that are ineligible because they were included in the frame due to lack of information but do not belong there, and units that were still eligible when included in the frame but became ineligible during the year (termination of the business entity, or it no longer has employees).
Reference period
Domain name
Number of ineligible units in the frame
Number of all units in the frame
Overcoverage rate (in %)
2022Q1
TOTAL
203
68,978
0.29
2022Q2
TOTAL
657
68,979
0.95
2022Q3
TOTAL
1,201
68,982
1.74
2022Q4
TOTAL
1,557
68,976
2.26
Annual average 2022
TOTAL
.
.
1.31
2023Q1
TOTAL
225
69,644
0.32
2023Q2
TOTAL
771
69,654
1.11
2023Q3
TOTAL
1,159
69,652
1.66
2023Q4
TOTAL
1,551
69,945
2.23
Annual average 2023
TOTAL
.
.
1.33
2024Q1
TOTAL
243
70,054
0.35
Annual average 2024*
TOTAL
.
.
0.35
* Due to technical problems in the database of indicators for 2024, data are available only for Q1. Data for other quarters will be included in the next quality report. We estimate that, based on the survey results and the conducted process, the non-response rate remains at similar levels in the other three quarters.
6.3.1.2. Common units - proportion
The table below shows the number and the percentage of business entities that reported the data by the JV survey and by the Employment Service of Slovenia (administrative data source). If the reported values are different, then we use that data source where more job vacancies were recorded.
Quarter
Number of business entities
Share (in %)
2024Q1
534
6.7
2024Q2
481
6.1
2024Q3
410
5.2
2024Q4
376
4.7
6.3.2. Measurement error
There is no non-response for the key variable (the number of job vacancies). A control has been added to the online questionnaire when entering the data on the number of job vacancies. If the number entered is greater than 50, a check box appears in which the reporting unit has to confirm that the number entered is indeed correct.
There are several reasons for the occurrence of measurement errors. The main reasons are instructions for completing the questionnaire being poorly read or not read at all, misunderstanding of the instructions or careless completion of the questionnaire. Measurement errors can also occur if the persons who complete the questionnaire or the persons who conduct the telephone survey at SURS are replaced.
6.3.3. Non response error
See below.
6.3.3.1. Unit non-response - rate
Unit response rate
The tables show the non-response rate for unweighted data for the last three survey implementations. The average unweighted non-response rate was the lowest in 2022; it was 3.38% and in 2024 increased to 3.56% (data only for Q1). In this number are some units from which we do not succeed in obtaining the data, namely units with invalid addresses and/or invalid telephone numbers. Overall, the non-response rate is low, considering the large number of units included in this survey, especially micro-enterprises with less than ten employees.
The tables show the non-response rate for unweighted data for the last three survey implementations. The average unweighted non-response rate was the lowest in 2022; it was 3.38% and in 2023 increased to 3.40%. In this number are some units from which we do not succeed in obtaining the data, namely units with invalid addresses and/or invalid telephone numbers. Overall, the non-response rate is low, regarding the large number of units included in this survey, especially micro-enterprises with less than ten employees.
Reference period
Domain name
Number of non-respo nses
Number of eligible units
Non-response rate (in %) - Unweighted
2022Q1
TOTAL
409
11,501
3.56
2022Q2
TOTAL
359
11,463
3.13
2022Q3
TOTAL
338
11,425
2.96
2022Q4
TOTAL
442
11,383
3.88
Annual average 2022
3.38
2023Q1
TOTAL
352
11,265
3.12
2023Q2
TOTAL
356
11,234
3.17
2023Q3
TOTAL
489
11,204
4.36
2023Q4
TOTAL
328
11,157
2.94
Annual average 2023
3.56
2024Q1
TOTAL
395
11,109
3.56
Annual average 2024*
3.56
* Due to technical problems in the database of indicators for 2024, data are available only for Q1. Data for other quarters will be included in the next quality report. We estimate that, based on the survey results and the conducted process, the non-response rate remains at similar levels in the other three quarters.
6.3.3.2. Item non-response - rate
There was no non-response to the key variable on the number of job vacancies. A control on the mandatory entry of data in this field has been added to the WEB questionnaire.
6.3.4. Processing error
In 2024, the collection and processing of data was carried out without special features.
6.3.4.1. Imputation - rate
The number of job vacancies, which is collected by survey, is fully assembled. So the data are not imputed.
6.3.5. Model assumption error
If modelling is used, include a description of the models used. Particular emphasis should be given to models for imputation or grossing-up to correct for unit non-response.
Not relevant
6.4. Seasonal adjustment
Brief description of seasonal adjustment procedures, in particular with regard to the European Statistical System guidelines on seasonal adjustment which have been endorsed and supported by the SPC.
For seasonal adjustment of time series, we use the TRAMO/SEATS method. A time series model is set up, and it is revised in detail and corrected about once a year. By using the model, the time series is decomposed into:
the trend-cycle component (which consists of the trend and cyclical movements over a period longer than one year),
the seasonal component (which consists of the seasonal effects and the calendar effects; the calendar effects are composed of the working day effect, the leap-year effect, the holiday effect and the Easter effect),
the irregular component (which consists of random fluctuations and some outliers).
Seasonally adjusted data are original data from which the seasonal and calendar effects are eliminated.
Data on the number of PDM (job vacancies) and ZDM (occupied posts) are seasonally adjusted. The time series, according to SKD2008, includes fields of activity from B-S, namely from the first quarter of 2008 onwards.
Models for seasonal adjustment were last reviewed in the 3rd quarter of 2022 and the models were changed for individual areas, some activities were added, and some no longer have a seasonal impact, and the models are no longer needed.
Job vacancies seasonal adjustment (PDM):
At PDM, 52 time series are seasonally adjusted, 36 time series are seasonally adjusted directly, and 16 time series are indirectly seasonally adjusted (groups at a higher level of activity). 12 directly seasonally adjusted time series are characterised by seasonal and calendar influences (seasonal models are set), and 24 time series are characterised by non-seasonal models, which means that seasonally adjusted data are the same as the original ones.
Occupied posts seasonal adjustment (ZDM):
At ZDM, 52 time series are also seasonally adjusted, 36 time series are seasonally adjusted directly, and 16 time series are indirectly seasonally adjusted (groups at a higher level of activity). 20 directly seasonally adjusted time series are characterised by seasonal and calendar influences (seasonal models are set), and 16 time series are characterised by non-seasonal models, which means that seasonally adjusted data are the same as the original ones.
Provide a revision history, including the revisions in the published number of job vacancies and a summary of the reasons for the revisions.
Revision of the data in 2011:
Together with the publication of data for the third quarter of 2011, on 24 November 2011, revised data for the entire time series, from 2001 on, were published. In line with the methodology stipulated in Regulation (EC) No. 453/2008, occupied posts include only persons in paid employment, while before the revision persons in employment (excluding farmers) were included. Since 2009 occupied posts include posted workers (workers sent abroad to work or study) who have employment contracts in Slovenia and whose wages are paid by employers registered in Slovenia.
The next reason for the revision was elimination of recipients of parental compensation (persons on maternity leave) since 2008. While receiving parental compensation, person on maternity leave formally remain employed and are included in persons in employment. During their leave, employers often employ another person for the same job to replace the absent employee. Excluding persons on maternity leave from the number of occupied posts is thus necessary in order not to duplicate the number of occupied posts.
Data on the number of job vacancies remained more or less the same, except that activities of households as employers are also included.
Taking into account the above mentioned changes, the number of occupied posts was lower; on average by about 50,000 (between 2001 and 31 December 2007) and by about 72,000 (since 2008 when the data on persons on maternity leave are taken into account). As a result, the job vacancy rate also changed; since revision in 2011 it was one percentage point higher.
Revision of the data in 2015:
Together with the release for the first quarter of 2015 on 9 June 2015 revised data for the 2013Q2–2014Q1 period were also published. Previously, those data had been provisional. Because of the elimination of the compulsory reporting of job vacancies, the administrative data source of the ESS became incomplete in the second quarter of 2013. In 2013 SURS was trying to find alternative methods for forecasting these data but without success. In October 2014 SURS conducted a pilot implementation of the survey. Processes and data collection were tested, data collection was carried out by the eSTAT application (WEB). In 2015 SURS actually began to collect data on job vacancies with an independent survey. In the meantime, data were estimated on the basis of historical time series by Demetra+ program with TRAMO/SEATS method. For the calculation of the forecast data, we used the newly available information, i.e. data collected for the first quarter of 2015 (SURS) and results from the survey »Napovednik zaposlovanja« (NAP-ZAP), which was conducted in May and in October 2014 by the ESS. The survey was conducted at employers with 10 or more persons in employment (threshold coverage). SURS had one question at the end of the questionnaire regarding the number of current job vacancies on the reference day, namely:
For the second quarter of 2014 the reference day was 30 April 2014;
For the fourth quarter of 2014 the reference day was 31 October 2014.
The sample for the NAP-ZAP survey included nearly 9,000 business entities. The survey rate was 57% in the second quarter of 2014 and slightly lower (53%) in the fourth quarter. The survey included only business entities with 10 or more employees. For the recalculation to the level of Slovenia we used the ratio of 2012 (for the second and fourth quarters of 2012). Data for other interim quarters were recalculated with Demetra+ program again. Considering the added information, the provisional data greatly changed.
In 2015 there was a break in the time series due to changes in the data source, the method of data collection and the methodology.
6.6.1. Data revision - average size
The following table presents the comparison of the job vacancy rate and the number of vacancies in Slovenia as provisional data and then as final (revised) data:
Number of job vacancies (original data):
2013Q2
2013Q3
2013Q4
2014Q1
2014Q2
2014Q3
2014Q4
Provisional data
5,078
5,248
3,825
4,628
4,746
5,029
3,813
Final (revised) data
5,500
6,877
5,840
7,712
8,810
9,101
7,115
Difference:
422
1,629
2,015
3,084
4,064
4,072
3,302
Job vacancy rate (original data):
Provisional data
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.6
Final (revised) data
0.8
1.0
0.9
1.1
1.1
1.3
1.0
Difference:
0.1
0.3
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.6
0.4
Since 2015 data is collected by SURS so there is a break in the time series due to changes in the data source, the method of data collection and the methodology.
7.1. Timeliness
The job vacancy data is available 30 days after the reference date. It's the time period of data collection. The data for occupied posts, which are taken from the monthly survey Persons in Employment, are available 45 days after the reference month. Then processing of the data and the dissemination follow.
7.1.1. Time lag - first result
Information on the time span between the release of data at national level and the reference period of the data.
The dates of publishing are announced in the Release Calendar for the next year. Job vacancy data published in the First release were final data.
Reference period
End of the reference period
Date of publishing
Time lag (in days)
2022Q1
31 March 2022
12 May 2022
42
2022Q2
30 June 2022
11 August 2022
42
2022Q3
30 September 2022
10 November 2022
41
2022Q4
31 December 2022
13 February 2023
44
Annual average 2022
42
2023Q1
31 March 2023
11 May 2023
41
2023Q2
30 June 2023
10 August 2023
41
2023Q3
30 September 2023
09 November 2023
40
2023Q4
31 December 2023
15 February 2024
46
Annual average 2023
42
2024Q1
31 March 2024
16 May 2024
46
2024Q2
30 June 2024
13 August 2024
44
2024Q3
30 September 2024
14 November 2024
45
2024Q4
31 December 2024
13 February 2025
44
Annual average 2024
45
7.1.2. Time lag - final result
According to the regulation, the deadline for publishing data and transmitting them to Eurostat is 70 days after the end of the reference quarter. The time interval has been between 40 and 46 days in the last three years. In 2024, the average interval from the end of the quarter to the date of data publication was 45 days, which is still 25 days before the deadline by the regulation. The data published in the first release are final, so the timeliness of the final results is equal to the timeliness of the first release.
7.2. Punctuality
See 7.2.1.
7.2.1. Punctuality - delivery and publication
Deadlines for the respondents to reply, also covering recalls and follow-ups
Period of the fieldwork
Period of data processing
Dates of publication of first results
Remarks
The reporting units can report the data trought the eSTAT application by approximately 14 days after the reference date. Reporting units which did not respond are contacted by CATI in the next 10 days. The deadline for the respondents is 30 days after the reference day.
Data is collected at the field once per quarter. The reference day for job vacancies is the last working day in the middle month of the quarter. The reference day for occupied posts is the last day in the middle month of the reference quarter. Data collection ends on the last day of the reference quarter.
The period of data processing is approximately one month. Data regarding the occupied post is available in t+45 days. Therefore, final data processing can begin when all necessary data are available (after t+45 days).
Results are published with the First Release, and the dates are announced in advance for the whole year in the Release Calendar. In 2024, there were no delays in publishing the data. Dates of publications of first results are listed in the table in Chapter 7.1.1. Time lag - first result.
8.1. Comparability - geographical
Information on differences between national and European concepts, and — to the extent possible — their effects on the estimation.
There are no differences between national and European concepts. Data is available only for Slovenia as a whole.
8.1.1. Asymmetry for mirror flow statistics - coefficient
Not applicable
8.2. Comparability - over time
Information on changes in definitions, coverage and methods in any two consecutive quarters, and their effects on the estimation.
Remarks
Changes reflected in the number of job vacancies:
Since 2001, there have been no major methodological or legal changes which would have an effect on the job vacancy data. The time series job vacancy data is comparable from 2001 to 2014. The data from the second quarter of 2013 to the end of 2014 were forecasted based on historical time series data and additional information from other surveys. In 2015Q1, SURS began to collect job vacancy data with a survey based on a representative sample.
Changes reflected in the number of occupied posts:
Since January 2008, in the number of occupied posts, recipients of parental compensation (persons on maternity leave) are excluded. While receiving parental compensation, a person on maternity leave formally remain employed and is included in persons in employment. During their leave, employers often employ another person for the same job to replace the absent employee.
Since September 2009 in the number of occupied posts posted workers (workers sent abroad to work or training) are included. They have employment contracts in Slovenia and their wages are paid by Slovenian employers.
Since January 2013, from occupied posts are excluded persons on long-term sick leave more than for 30 working days. Such sick leave is no longer covered by the employer but by the Health Insurance Institute.
Since 1 January 2020,posts occupied by persons employed by two or more employers at the same time up to the maximum full-time (40 hours per week), have been included.
8.2.1. Length of comparable time series
Data on job vacancies and occupied posts have been available since 2001, but in 2015, the method of data collection was changed. From full coverage, which was based on the administrative source of the ESS, we switched to a sample survey conducted by SURS. Therefore, it is from 2015 onwards a break in the time series. At the end of 2024, the length of the comparable time series was 40 quarters.
Reference period
Statistics
First comparable time period
Length of comparable time series
2024Q1
Job Vacancies
2015Q1
37
2024Q2
Job Vacancies
2015Q1
38
2024Q3
Job Vacancies
2015Q1
39
2024Q4
Job Vacancies
2015Q1
40
8.3. Coherence - cross domain
Comparisons of data on the number of vacant jobs from other relevant sources when available, in total and broken down by NACE at section level when relevant, and reasons if the values differ considerably.
Comparison between the number of occupied posts (by JV Survey), and the number of employees (by LFS) and the Beveridge curve. The Beveridge curve for Slovenia shows a very consistent correlation between the two data: as the vacancy rate increases, on the other hand, the unemployment rate at the LFS decreases.
Since 2013, annual data by occupation, by statistical region and by activity have not been available. In the Eurostat Database are annual data by activity calculated as the average of quarterly data. In the national SiSTAT Database, the annual data are not published any more.
8.5. Coherence - National Accounts
Regarding the occupied posts, both surveys are using the same data source (Statistical Register of Employment), which is the basis for the monthly survey Persons in Employment (DAK). Differences can only occur due to different coverage of the population or different methodologies.
8.6. Coherence - internal
The table shows the relative difference between two different data sources. The number of occupied posts in this survey was compared with the number of persons in paid employment (activity B-S) by the Labour Force Survey. In the case of occupied posts, persons who are absent from work (due to long-term sick leave of more than 30 working days or persons who are recipients of parental benefit (persons on maternity leave) are excluded, while at the LFS survey are such persons are taken into account. This is one of the reasons for the differences between the themes of the two reference sources. Another reason is in the different reference days: LFS data refer to the week before the survey, and JVS data to the last working day of the middle month in each quarter. Since the definition of employed persons changed in 2021 (persons absent from work due to other reasons or lay-off for up to three months are not taken into account), the number of persons in paid employment decreased as a result, and therefore, the difference between these two sources also decreased. In 2024, the annual difference between the two sources was 2%.
Persons in paid employment (by LFS survey) are persons aged 15–89 who during the reference week did any work for pay or profit (in cash or kind) or family gain for at least one hour, including contributing family workers. Persons in paid employment who were not working but had a job from which they were temporarily absent are also considered employed. Absences include holidays, annual, sick, parental and maternity leave, and education or training connected to the job. In 2021, the definition of persons in employment in the LFS survey changed. Seasonal workers absent due to off-season time but performing any kind of work linked to their seasonal work, are also listed among employed persons. The same goes for those absent due to other reasons or lay-off if the total duration of absence is 3 months or less. In the case of LFS data, since 2021, due to methodological comparability with occupied positions, employed persons with a formal contract are taken into account - i.e., other forms of informal work under entrepreneurial subcontracts and student work are excluded.
Reference period
Domain name
Statistics
Difference
2022Q1
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.01
2022Q2
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.00
2022Q3
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.00
2022Q4
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.00
Annual average 2022
0.00
2023Q1
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.01
2023Q2
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.00
2023Q3
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.01
2023Q4
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.01
Annual average 2023
0.01
2024Q1
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.01
2024Q2
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.01
2024Q3
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.01
2024Q4
TOTAL
Number of occupied posts
0.04
Annual average 2024
0.02
9.1. Dissemination format - News release
The First Releases for all statistical surveys are available in the Release calendar published on the website of the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia.
Dissemination scheme, including to whom the results are sent
Periodicity of national publication
References for publications of core results, including those with commentary in the form of text, graphs, maps, etc.
Information on what results, if any, are sent to reporting units included in the sample
Data are published on our website with the First Release (Labour Market) and at the same time in our SiStat Database (Labour market > Employees, self-employed and unemployed > Job vacancies). Individual data users, journalist, institutions can sign up to receive daily information about new publications. They also get information when the next release is announced.
The data are published quarterly. Since 2013 detailed annual data by occupation, by activity and by statistical regions are no longer available.
Core results are published with the First Release, links are listed in chapter 9.1.
Some basic information about the survey is available on our website. Reporting units are informed quarterly of the start of data collection for the next period. A notification letter (sent by mail or postal service) always includes a link to the latest results.
9.3. Dissemination format - online database
Data on job vacancies are available in SiStat Database.
In case of special data inquiries by users, special tables are made if a more detailed breakdown is possible due to the statistical confidentiality of the data.
9.4. Dissemination format - microdata access
The Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia enables researchers to access data for the purpose of research, i.e. to all data collected with statistical surveys planned in the current annual programme of statistical surveys. SURS also enables researchers to access data that researchers transmit to SURS with the purpose of linking them in a secure environment.
Micro-data are stored in an Oracle database, which cannot be accessed by external users directly. In 2019, SURS received the first request for access to job vacancies microdata for research purposes. We prepare the data accordingly so that it is not possible to discern the identity of the business entity. Instead of the business entity's ID number, a research number is recorded. The research number is the same for all data sources requested by the researcher.
Detailed information for researchers regarding access to microdata is available on the website.
Documentation on methodology is available on our website where there are methodological explanations for all statistical surveys including Job vacancies. Only the latest valid Methodological Explanations are available for individual statistical surveys.
Description of and references for metadata provided
References for core methodological documents relating to the statistics provided
Description of main actions carried out by the national statistical services to inform users about the data
Remarks
Metadata, core variables, definitions and all other information are written in Methodological Explanations which are linked under the table in the SiStat Database.
Methodological explanations for all surveys are published on the website.
Methodological Explanations are linked under the table in the SiStat Database, they are also accessible through our website, where methodological explanations for all statistical surveys are collected. Some additional explanations are also written in the First Release in case if there are some methodological changes.
Cost: In 2024, the total operational costs for conducting the survey were around 58,800 €, which went up by 8,500 € according to the previous year.
Type of costs
Cost (in €)
Material costs (phone, interviews, postage costs, …)
16,952.06
Labour costs (Employees)
41,493.15
Total
58,445.21
Burden: The average time spent filling in the questionnaire can only be measured for the responses we received via telephone implementation (CATI). For the other two methods of data collection, this value is inserted based on the CATI responses. The table shows the average time required to report data for the entire population included in the sample; namely for the whole year. In 2021, the average time spent filling in the questionnaire was slightly longer, it was around two minutes. Units responding over the phone complained to interviewers about the prohibition to perform business activities and other issues related to the covid-19 pandemic. In 2022 and 2023, it was shortened to one minute again.
Reference period
Total time spent on reporting data (in minutes)
Number of completed questionnaires (in the whole year)
Time spent on completing a questionnaire (in minutes)
2021
44,158
28,910
2.00
2022
43,723
30,310
1.00
2023
35,010
29,437
1.00
2024*
.
.
.
* Due to technical problems in the database of indicators for 2024, data are not yet available; it will be included in the next quality report. We estimate that, based on the survey results and the conducted process, the values remain at similar levels.
11.1. Confidentiality - policy
The confidentiality of reporting units and the data basis of the National Statistics Act (OJ RS, No. 45/95 and 9/01).
11.2. Confidentiality - data treatment
Disclosure rules: Brief description of when data have to be deleted for reasons of confidentiality
Data is not protected in terms of confidentiality because they are not published at such a detailed level. Under the principles of confidentiality at SURS, all results are published in aggregate form, as absolute numbers and in percentages. For easier interpretation and understanding of data, we also prepare infographics, graphs, and tables, and calculate various indicators.
The data is intended to take timely measures on the labour market since we measure differences between the supply and demand in the labour market, which is reflected in the job vacancies offered and in the number of occupied posts. The data is also important for assessing the need for employers to employ new workers. Besides the number of job vacancies and occupied posts by sector of activity and by the size of the business entity, the job vacancy rate by sector of activity is also published.
The survey is implemented on the basis of the National Statistics Act (OJ RS, No. 45/95 and 9/01), the current Annual Programme of Statistical Surveys and on the basis of Commission Regulation (EC) No 1062/2008 of 28 October 2008 and implementing Regulation (EC) No 453/2008 of the European Parliament of the Council on quarterly statistics on Community job vacancies, as regards seasonal adjustment procedures and quality reports.
Not Applicable
A job vacancy is defined as a paid post that is newly created, unoccupied, or about to become vacant:
for which the employer is taking active steps and is prepared to take further steps to find a suitable candidate from outside the enterprise concerned; and
which the employer intends to fill either immediately or within a specific period of time.
Active steps to find a suitable candidate include:
notifying the job vacancy to the public employment services,
contacting a private employment agency/head hunters,
advertising the vacancy in the media (for example internet, newspapers, magazines),
advertising the vacancy on a public notice board,
approaching, interviewing or selecting possible candidates/potential recruits directly,
approaching employees and/or personal contacts,
using internships.
Specific period of time refers to the maximum time the vacancy is open and intended to be filled. That period shall be unlimited; all vacancies for which active steps are continuing on the reference date shall be reported.
An occupied post means a paid post within the organisation to which an employee has been assigned.
The statistical unit is a business unit (Legal unit).
The statistical population includes business entities as a whole, registered on the territory of the Republic of Slovenia which had at least one employed person when the sample was prepared. Natural persons who have no employees besides themselves are not the target population. Included are business entities with registered main activity by NACE Rev.2 classification from B to S.
The reference area is the territory of the Republic of Slovenia.
Not Applicable
Estimates are calculated only for job vacancies because data are collected on a sample basis. Estimates are published at the level of Slovenia, by fields of activity (B–S) and according to the size of the business entity (with 10 or more employees). Estimates for occupied posts are not calculated because the data are based on full coverage.
Not Applicable
Brief description of the weighting method
Weighting dimensions
With weighting adjustment, we want to achieve representativeness of the sample so that the weighted data gives us as good population estimates as possible. The process of weighting depends on the sampling design, the unit non-response rate and available auxiliary variables used for calibration. The final weight is the product of the sampling weight, the non-response weight and the calibration factor. The results represent an estimate of the total target population. The process of weighting depends on the sampling design, the unit non-response rate and available auxiliary variables used for calibration. The final weight is the product of the sampling weight, the non-response weight and the calibration factor.
In this survey, the final (population) weight consists of three types of weights: - Sample weight, - Non-response weight, - Calibration (adjustment to population values).
The first two types of weights are calculated based on the strata from the sample (both size classes and activities) obtained from the frame. The last (population) weight is calculated on the basis of newly collected data: statistical activities (SKD_ST_OBD_ID1) and size classes, using the number of occupied posts (ZDM_STEV) from the collected data. The population weight therefore includes quarterly updated information on statistical activity and size classes (strata), calculated on the basis of the number of occupied posts.
Identification of the source of the data
Since 2015, SURS has been collecting job vacancy data independently with a sample survey except for the public sector. The source for job vacancies in the public sector is the Employment Service of Slovenia (ESS) - (form: "PDM-1 Report of job vacancy"). This source is also used to control the data of the units which were included in the sample and it also reported the job vacancies at the Employment Service of Slovenia to provide the public notice.
The source for the data on the number of occupied posts is the monthly survey Persons in Employment (DAK), and the data for this survey are primarily taken from the Statistical Register of Employment (SRDAP). Data refer to the whole population and are not calculated on the basis of a sample.
The source for persons who are recipients of parental compensation (persons on maternity leave) is the Ministry of Labour, Family, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities.
The source for persons who are on long-term sick leave more than 30 working days is the National Institute of Public Health.
Coverage
Geographical
The Republic of Slovenia
NACE
Included are business entities with registered main activity from B to S. Business entities with registered main activity A - agriculture, forestry and fishing are not included.
Enterprise size
Business entities with at least one employed person, when the sample was prepared (the reference month for persons in employment is October of the previous year).
Definition of the statistical unit
Statistical unit is a business entity as a whole, registered on the territory of the Republic of Slovenia which had at least one employed person when the sample was prepared. Natural persons who have no employees besides themselves are not the target population.
Remarks
Occupied posts: The number of occupied posts includes persons employed by legal or natural persons. Since September 2009 posted workers (workers sent abroad to work or study) are also included. Since 1 January 2020 posts occupied by persons employed by two or more employers at the same time up to the maximum full-time (40 hours per week) have been included.
Excluded are:
persons who are recipients of parental compensation (persons on maternity leave) - since January 2008 and
persons who are on long-term sick leave which is longer than 30 working days - since January 2013.
Sampling design
Base used for the sample
Some basic data regarding the Statistical Business Register, which is the basis for the preparation of the sample (for the last three years).
No.
2022
2023
2024
1
Business entities registered in Business Register of Slovenia (total population)
230,215
237,995
244,444
2
Business entities with at least one person in employment (master sampling frame)
65,757
66,417
66,857
3
Busines entities included in JV sample (number)
8,294
8,056
7,929
4
Share of business entities included in JV sample
12.6%
12.1%
11.9%
5
The number of busines entities in public sector (mandatory reporting JV to Employment Services of Slovenia)
3,221
3,227
3,197
6
Busines entities included in JV sample - Total (No. 3+5)
11,515
11,283
11,126
7
Share of business entities included in JV sample - Total
17.5%
17.0%
16.6%
Sampling design
The number of business entities in the master sampling frame, the number of business entities included in the JV sample and the number of business entities in public sector (covered by administrative data source) by fields of activities, Slovenia, 2024
Activity
Master sampling frame
JV sample
Share (in %)
Public sector
Total
66,857
5,624
11.9
3,197
B
MINING AND QUARRYING
64
64
100.0
6
C
MANUFACTURING
9,502
774
8.1
32
D
ELECTRICITY, GAS, STEAM AND AIR CONDITIONING SUPPLY
180
56
31.1
41
E
WATER SUPPLY, SEWERAGE, WASTE MANAGEMENT AND REMEDIATION ACTIVITIES
187
187
100.0
82
F
CONSTRUCTION
10,991
1,043
9.5
14
G
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE, REPAIR OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES
12,355
808
6.5
37
H
TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
4,501
555
12.3
22
I
ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD SERVICE ACTIVITIES
5,317
460
8.7
27
J
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
2,895
448
15.5
32
K
FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE ACTIVITIES
707
166
23.5
21
L
REAL ESTATE ACTIVITIES
1,291
497
38.5
37
M
PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES
9,832
1,262
12.8
142
N
ADMINISTRATIVE AND SUPPORT SERVICE ACTIVITIES
2,362
263
11.1
31
O
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND DEFENCE, COMPULSORY SOCIAL SECURITY
.
.
.
1,339
P
EDUCATION
991
95
9.6
851
Q
HUMAN HEALTH AND SOCIAL WORK ACTIVITIES
2,044
146
7.1
214
R
ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION
1,022
362
35.4
241
S
OTHER SERVICE ACTIVITIES
2,616
743
28.4
28
Since 2024Q1, some improvements have been introduced to define the target population of business entities. Business entities whose main activity is registered in sector E - Water supply, sewage, waste management and remediation activities, were included with certainty (all units). In this way, we avoided the less accurate estimates that were more often made in the past. Until now, only business entities in activity B - Mining, have been included with certainty. Furthermore, excluded were business entities where only one person was employed part-time (up to 10 hours per week) and this person was over 64 years old. By Slovenian legislation, a retired person can be reactivated. He or she can work up to ¼ of the working time and at the same time receive 75% of the pension. Based on past responses from the field, we estimate that these are not appropriate units which would employ new people.
Retention/renewal of sampling units
The job vacancy sample is the same throughout the year and doesn't change between quarters. While units for the public sector are added for each quarter separately according to the registration in the Business Register. Their number changes slightly between quarters.
Sample size
The total size of the sample (including units for the public sector) was 11,126 business entities in the first quarter of 2024 which represents 16.6% of all business entities with at least one person in employment.
Stratification
The stratification of business entities was made according to five sizes (strata). The table shows the number of business entities selected in the sample according to the size (stratum) for the last three years. For the last reference year, the share of included units regarding to the total sample size is also shown.
Stratum
Size of the stratum and the type of selection
Number of business entities included in the sample
Share for 2024 (%)
2022
2023
2024
0
1 person in employment (Random selection)
1,828
1,842
1,882
23.7
1
2 to 9 persons in employment (Random selection)
2,922
3,009
2,999
37.8
2
10 to 49 persons in employment (Random selection)
2,055
1,67
1,526
19.2
3
50 to 249 persons in employment (The entire population)
1,277
1,312
1,304
16.4
4
250 or more persons in employment (The entire population)
212
223
218
2.7
Total
8,294
8,056
7,929
100.0
Other sources
Maintenance agency
Maintenance agencies are included in the sample. They report only job vacancies for themselves (person will be employed by the agency, but he or she can be sent to work to subscriber).
Updating frequency
The sample is updated quarterly. Units that are terminated in the Business Register during the next quarter or that are officially in the process of bankruptcy or liquidation are flagged as ineligible units. Companies established during the reference year are not included in the sample until the next year.
Rules for clearance (of outdated information)
Data is collected once per quarter on a reference date. The reporting units include only the current job vacancies for which they are actively looking for candidates outside of their organization.
Voluntary/compulsory reporting and sanctions
For business entities that are included in the JV sample, it is mandatory to report, according to the National Statistics Act. Sanctions are not implemented, as we are trying to convince units to participate in the survey.
Remarks
Not Applicable
The job vacancy data is available 30 days after the reference date. It's the time period of data collection. The data for occupied posts, which are taken from the monthly survey Persons in Employment, are available 45 days after the reference month. Then processing of the data and the dissemination follow.
Information on differences between national and European concepts, and — to the extent possible — their effects on the estimation.
There are no differences between national and European concepts. Data is available only for Slovenia as a whole.
Information on changes in definitions, coverage and methods in any two consecutive quarters, and their effects on the estimation.
Remarks
Changes reflected in the number of job vacancies:
Since 2001, there have been no major methodological or legal changes which would have an effect on the job vacancy data. The time series job vacancy data is comparable from 2001 to 2014. The data from the second quarter of 2013 to the end of 2014 were forecasted based on historical time series data and additional information from other surveys. In 2015Q1, SURS began to collect job vacancy data with a survey based on a representative sample.
Changes reflected in the number of occupied posts:
Since January 2008, in the number of occupied posts, recipients of parental compensation (persons on maternity leave) are excluded. While receiving parental compensation, a person on maternity leave formally remain employed and is included in persons in employment. During their leave, employers often employ another person for the same job to replace the absent employee.
Since September 2009 in the number of occupied posts posted workers (workers sent abroad to work or training) are included. They have employment contracts in Slovenia and their wages are paid by Slovenian employers.
Since January 2013, from occupied posts are excluded persons on long-term sick leave more than for 30 working days. Such sick leave is no longer covered by the employer but by the Health Insurance Institute.
Since 1 January 2020,posts occupied by persons employed by two or more employers at the same time up to the maximum full-time (40 hours per week), have been included.
