Employers continue to struggle with hiring as fewer people apply for jobs and candidates abandon the interview process, according to new research from SHRM.
The U.S.-based organization’s 2025 Talent Trends report shows 69 per cent of employers face difficulties filling full-time roles. More than half report receiving too few applicants, while 41 per cent say candidates “ghost” them during interviews.
Skill requirements changing rapidly
The workplace is changing quickly, with 28 per cent of organizations saying job roles now need completely new skill sets. Another 47 per cent are updating existing positions to match current needs.
Data analysis tops the list of in-demand technology skills at 36 per cent, followed by artificial intelligence at 31 per cent and cybersecurity at 21 per cent.
AI adoption grows in HR
Nearly half of organizations — 43 per cent — now use AI in their human resources functions. About 51 per cent use the technology for recruiting tasks like screening resumes and communicating with candidates.
However, two-thirds of organizations have not focused on teaching their workers how to work with AI effectively, the report found.
Training programs show success
Some solutions are working well. Job rotations have a 92 per cent success rate in addressing talent shortages, said SHRM. Apprenticeships and internships also help bridge skill gaps.
Organizations are getting creative with recruitment, with 55 per cent using social media to find candidates. About 38 per cent address hiring problems by training current employees for critical roles.
“Our latest research provides a critical lens into the dynamics shaping the future of work,” said Alex Alonso, SHRM’s chief data and analytics officer. “From the increasing integration of AI in HR functions to the persistent challenges posed by skill gaps, the findings underscore the need for businesses to prioritize upskilling and adaptability.”
Human skills still matter
Despite technology advances, many employers struggle to find candidates with essential human skills like problem-solving and decision-making. These abilities remain crucial for long-term success but are hard to find in today’s job market.
SHRM recommends that organizations focus on inclusion, employee training and skills-based hiring to prepare for ongoing market changes.
