For the first time, report also explores diversity and inclusion, impact of COVID-19 in tech sector
Three in four technology companies (75%) face difficulty finding candidates with the right skills and abilities, according to the annual Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® Future of Work Study. For the first time, the annual study – which surveyed 240 tech industry leaders on workforce trends – also explores how the tech sector is embracing diversity and inclusion and adapting amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The study finds four in five (80%) employers will need more employees with technical skills. Employers say the most in-demand technical skills at their company are data analytics (57%), software development (56%) and project management (56%). However, companies are also looking beyond technical skills to soft skills. The top soft skills employers look for are communication (85%), problem-solving (83%) and critical thinking (83%).
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To find and recruit skilled candidates, almost three-quarters of respondents (72%) say they will hire employees who meet their skill requirements regardless of education level. Almost one-quarter (24%) will hire more from train-to-hire programs such as apprenticeships.
“As it becomes more difficult to find candidates with the right skills and competition for qualified candidates heats up, companies will need to expand their recruitment pipelines and offer more training for employees to help close the skills gap,” said Jacqueline Black, director of strategic alliances, U.S. Jobs, CTA. “Companies may also look to apprenticeship programs as a proven way to fill vacant positions and prepare workers with in-demand technical skills.”
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