As HR professionals face persistent recruiting challenges, programs such as apprenticeships, internships and job rotations are narrowing skill gaps, according to a July 25 report from SHRM.
In fact, job rotations had a 92% success rate in alleviating talent shortages, the report found.
“Our latest research provides a critical lens into the dynamics shaping the future of work,” Alex Alonso, chief data and analytics officer at SHRM, said in a statement. “From the increasing integration of AI in HR functions to the persistent challenges posed by skill gaps, the findings underscore the need for businesses to prioritize upskilling and adaptability.”
In a survey of more than 2,000 HR pros, 69% reported ongoing difficulty filling full-time roles. More than half reported a lack of applicants, and 41% said they’re experiencing candidate “ghosting” during the interview process.
Upskilling remains vital, the report found. More than a quarter of HR pros said some of their roles require entirely new skill sets, and 47% are updating existing roles. In addition, 38% said they’re addressing hiring challenges by training existing employees to fill critical roles.
Although AI remains a top skill, two-thirds of organizations haven’t yet focused on upskilling workers to use AI, the report found. Most employers also reported difficulty finding candidates with human-centric skills, such as problem-solving and decision-making.
Apprenticeships and internships are gaining renewed focus as avenues for upskilling workers. In an April executive order, President Donald Trump directed the secretaries of Labor, Education and Commerce to submit a plan to “reach and surpass 1 million new active apprentices.” The order also called on the departments to improve transparency around the performance outcomes of workforce development programs.
“Earn and learn” opportunities, including apprenticeships, internships and work-study programs, can help workers gain in-demand skills and experience while earning a paycheck, according to a Government Accountability Office report. Although employers cited barriers such as cost and administrative burden, some federal agencies have launched new initiatives to address these challenges, the GAO said.
“SHRM found fostering inclusion, upskilling employees and adopting a skills-first hiring approach are imperative strategies as businesses prepare for ongoing market disruption,” according to the most recent report. “By creatively addressing talent shortages and leveraging both technology and human intelligence, organizations can build resilient and adaptable workforces for the future.”
