2020 has been a tumultuous year for hiring as the pandemic created high unemployment. While the rate of unemployment has improved since its beginning effects on our economy, there is still demand for employment across many industries. However, many surveys are being conducted to see what staffing needs will be needed in 2021. The Recruiting Brief, a valued source composed of national employment experts providing information regarding all things employment-related, has performed a survey and predicts what staffing needs, hiring factors, and more, will look like in 2021. 2021 Staffing Need Predictions

The survey found that 70% of organizations who furloughed or performed layoffs will backfill those roles, even with layoffs being the most cost-saving method during the pandemic. In continuation, 87% of survey respondents stated those roles will be filled in less than a year, and 62% plan to do so in less than 6 months. The survey also concluded that adaptability/creativity, critical thinking/problem solving, and financial management have become essential skills for applicants to possess. While the coronavirus presented much uncertainty, it resulted in companies reorganizing their priorities and skills they value in applicants. 

In terms of the types of jobs predicted to be valued in the upcoming year, 40% of surveyors expect to hire for positions in their IT and technology departments, with customer service following closely at 36%, marketing at 34%, and sales at 31%. However, employers (about 47%) are implementing tougher hiring criteria due to changes in the hiring process and well as concerns of the pandemic. But with safety being a top priority for clients and employees, hiring managers have adapted to remote working and in some cases plan to promote it when hiring, presenting employees with more flexibility in work options. The survey also indicated that companies who moved to remote operations during the beginning of the pandemic have employees who are more productive and satisfied in their role. However,  about 62% of survey respondents indicated that geographical locations are still considered when selecting a candidate due to the possibility of in-house operations. 2021 Staffing Need Predictions

The survey also provided insights for existing staff members for all full-time, part-time, and temporary positions. 79% of organizations stated they plan to offer salary raises this year, even though 39% indicated the raise would be smaller than in previous years. 61% of surveyors still planned on giving end of the year bonuses and 54% of those respondents plan to give more than in previous years. 38% of respondents also mentioned other forms of compensation such as stipends and reimbursement for supplies. Overall, while both job seekers, employees, and employers have struggled with adjustments necessary from the pandemic, it goes to show how resilient we can be. Staff Solve continues to provide high-quality candidates and jobs in diverse markets during the pandemic. Let us take the stress off you so you can focus on your business by finding the perfect applicant for the position or the ideal role for you. If you are looking for employment, please visit our job seeker page or reach out for more information. If you are an employer looking to hire an agency, check out our articles What to Look for When Hiring a Staffing Agency and Benefits of Working with a Staffing Agency. If you would like more information about the services we offer employers, visit our employer page or contact us today.