A significant majority of German businesses are currently grappling with a critical skills shortage, emerging as their most pressing challenge in workforce planning, according to a recent Randstad-Ifo survey. The survey reveals that 52% of companies identify the scarcity of qualified personnel as their primary concern.
The data highlights a discernible shift in the balance of power within the hiring process. Jonas Hennrich, an Ifo researcher, noted that the shortage is evident in recruitment, giving job applicants increased negotiating leverage. Nearly half (49%) of the HR managers surveyed acknowledge this stronger position held by candidates. A mere 11% perceive an advantage for employers, while 40% believe a more even distribution of power exists.
Job cuts are proving to be a less significant response to the situation, with only 9% of companies citing workforce reduction as a central element of their planning strategies. A more substantial 20% see both skills shortages and job cuts as equally relevant factors, while 19% report being unaffected by either development at present.
The most acute need appears to be for individuals with completed vocational training qualifications – a “strong” or “considerable” deficit is reported by 77% of HR personnel experiencing a skills shortage. Demand also remains high for skilled technicians, masters and other roles requiring further training, impacting 58% of businesses.
Recruitment efforts targeting school leavers and apprentices are proving particularly difficult, with 51% of companies experiencing unsuccessful searches. Demand for university graduates is also substantial, with 47% struggling to fill appropriate positions. Laborers without vocational training are, comparatively, less in demand, with only 22% identifying a gap within this area.