More employers will be 'window shopping' to make the best out of the graduate jobs market, according to an industry expert.

Firms will still be looking for people, they will just becoming increasingly more "selective", staff solutions company Adecco Retail said.

Managing director Steven Kirkpatrick explained: "In terms of finding new work, the reality is that the market will become more competitive than it has been in a long time."

Companies like accountancy firm Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) have seen a dramatic increase in the number of applications for accountancy and professional services for graduates.

Many of whom surveyed by PwC said they were expecting less pay and broadening their horizons beyond their chosen degrees.

Latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) information showed earnings growth over the year was down by 0.1 per cent to 3.3 per cent.

There were fewer job vacancies overall, the ONS said.