A recent study* reveals that 90% of businesses are struggling to recruit entry-level tech talent. The company’s fourth annual Diversity in Tech report highlights significant skills gaps in the tech industry, with rising concerns over the future of the sector.
Key Findings:
- 61% of businesses are facing major shortages in specific technical skills.
- The most difficult area to recruit for is software engineering, with 62% of employers reporting significant hiring challenges.
- Data science and cybersecurity follow closely, with 47% and 41% of businesses respectively identifying substantial skills gaps.
- Beyond technical expertise, employers also report a deficit in soft skills. 31% of employers say that new recruits lack essential professional skills, such as communication and problem-solving abilities.
Imran Akhtar, Head of Academy at mthree, commented on the findings, stating, “Tech employers are facing a skills shortage in key areas like software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity, while also grappling with the lack of essential soft skills in new recruits. This dual deficit is hindering recruitment and retention of entry-level talent in the tech industry.”
The research highlights the urgent need for organizations to reconsider their workforce strategies to address these growing challenges. Failing to bridge the gap in both technical skills and soft skills could result in delayed innovation and lost business opportunities for companies.
Akhtar continues, “Businesses must take a proactive approach by investing in targeted training programs focused on both technical proficiency and job-ready skills. This will help close the gap between education and employment, ensuring that emerging talent is equipped to succeed in today’s competitive tech landscape.”
*report from mthree – mthree Diversity in Tech Report 2024
