placeholder
Stuart Gentle Publisher at Onrec

ONS: "The war for talent to set to intensify" - Robert Half

Phil Sheridan, senior managing director, Robert Half UK

“While unemployment remains low, the skills shortage in specialist positions continues to grow.

“The war for talent to set to intensify yet further, as the adoption of new technology drives demand. Eighty per cent of companies are currently recruiting to support digital transformation projects, with skills such as data analytics, programming and database management in particularly short demand. Already, 74 per cent of CIOs and IT directors frequently face candidates who don’t have the requisite skills for the role they are applying for. 

“This is taking place while automation is evolving the nature of some positions. Roles, such as payroll, financial planning and account receivable are expected to modify their requirements as key areas will incorporate automation by 2022. 

“To keep up with the changes in the skill demand and role development, businesses could benefit by adopting a flexible recruitment model. Accepting that some positions will be challenging to recruit for on a permanent basis and being open to hiring highly specialised professional on an interim basis, is the best way forward. Having the ability to bring in highly-skilled talent on an as- and when-needed basis to augment the skills of your permanent employees will allow your business the flexibility to encourage innovation as well as skills sharing.”