A new report by Upwork Inc. (NASDAQ: UPWK), the “Future Workforce Report,” found hiring managers are increasing their use of freelancers.
It found 56% of hiring managers who engage independent talent have increased their use of independent talent over the past 12 months. Looking ahead, it found 58% plan to increase use of independent talent over the next six months — that number goes up to 66% over the next two years.
Eighty-five percent of hiring managers who use independent talent say it allows them to access specialized skills or expertise.
The survey also found 69% of hiring managers anticipate staffing up over the next six months, but 60% cite difficulties finding quality talent.
The hardest roles to fill are data science and analytics, cited by 60%; architecture and engineering, 58%; and IT and networking, 58%.
Upwork’s survey included more than 1,000 US hiring managers and took place between April 25 and May 10.