Over a third (36%) of UK professional services employers plan to increase permanent headcount in the next six months, showing cautious hiring optimism. Employers report major obstacles: speed of hiring (71%), availability of qualified candidates (70%), and retention (70%). Addressing skills gaps (64%) and re/upskilling staff (54%) rank as key priorities. Rising employer taxes and hiring costs are present, yet many organisations continue essential recruitment to unlock growth, meet competition and build resilience. Contract talent remains in demand, with 31% of employers seeking contract workers to maintain agility amid skills shortages.
According to the firm's latest Hiring Intentions research, while these statistics show some recruitment stability for workers in professional services despite the current climate, underlying concerns around access to skills are resurfacing. Employers cited speed of hiring (71%), availability of qualified candidates (70%), and retention (70%) as the top challenges impacting their workforce strategies. Addressing skills gaps (64%) and re or upskilling the workforce (54%) were also flagged as significant concerns for the coming months.
Despite rising employer taxes and increasing costs associated with hiring, the research indicates that many employers are pressing ahead with essential recruitment plans that unlock growth, meet competitive challenges and build resilience. They recognise that bringing in the right talent is crucial not just to fill roles, but also to introduce the skills needed to drive business change and ensure organisational success.
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