Hiring managers report increased difficulty in filling open positions
A survey conducted by Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll revealed that over 40% of U.S. hiring managers are experiencing longer timelines to fill job openings compared to two years ago, with some roles taking at least four weeks to close. Additionally, an average of 21% of open positions remain unfilled, and nearly half (44%) of hiring managers said their organizations have jobs they cannot fill—a significant increase from the previous year. The survey also highlighted a shift in hiring practices: candidates now go through fewer interviews before receiving offers compared to earlier years. Job seekers expressed frustration with automated processes and concerns that companies are merely collecting resumes without genuine intent to hire. Some even believe roles are being filled by artificial intelligence, further complicating their job search. The findings come amid broader labor market trends showing a decline in layoffs year-over-year but rising workforce mobility due to dissatisfaction over compensation and optimism about better opportunities elsewhere.
Topics: hiring challenges job market recruitment trends unfilled positions