Technology leaders are facing critical skills gaps because of rapid change, evolving business priorities and the rise of AI, according to a study by Robert Half.
The study found that 95% of tech leaders report challenges finding skilled talent, and 51% anticipate significant hiring hurdles due to a dearth of applicants with the skill sets needed to support essential initiatives. While 65% of tech leaders acknowledge the skills gap within their department, 62% feel the skills gap has a greater impact today than a year ago.
Top priorities for technology leaders this year include IT systems and information security, AI, machine learning and automation initiatives, cloud projects, technology modernization and software engineering and development.
“It has never been more critical to have a talent strategy in place that aligns with your long-term vision and goals,” Ryan Sutton, executive director for technology talent solutions at Robert Half, said in a press release. “Without a defined hiring and retention plan to help fill technology skills gaps, it will be challenging to achieve objectives and complete mission-critical projects.”
The study also noted an increasing urgency to address skills gaps, especially with the emergence of new AI capabilities, as 90% of tech leaders plan to implement AI-related initiatives this year. Forty-eight percent of tech leaders cite a scarcity of staff with AI skills as the biggest barrier to success.
Furthermore, AI and machine learning ranked highest among identified skill gaps.
The study also found that organizations seek candidates proficient in technical and soft skills. Desired competencies include programming, data analysis and statistics, machine learning, software engineering, ethics and responsible AI, big data technologies, deep learning frameworks and computer vision.
Additionally, Robert Half recommended the following strategies to help hire, retain and advance high-performing tech teams:
- Seek and develop high-potential candidates. Focus on recruiting technology candidates eager to learn new skills that support business priorities and offer training to promising candidates who may not yet meet all your desired criteria.
- Embrace a scalable talent model. Adopting a mix of permanent, contract and consulting professionals can help bridge skills gaps quickly and efficiently to access professionals with specialized expertise, keep projects moving forward and stay agile.
- Support upskilling. Implement programs that encourage innovative thinking and ongoing learning to boost retention efforts.
The survey includes responses from 700 US tech leaders at the director level or above at companies with 20 or more employees. It took place between October 2023 and November 2023.