The survey shows the dramatic global shortage of skilled workers in 2025, particularly in Germany, and the challenges involved in recruiting them.
Global shortage of skilled workers
- 74% of employers worldwide have difficulty finding qualified talent.
- In Germany, this figure is 86%, which is the highest proportion worldwide.
- The shortage of skilled workers has doubled since 2014.
Skills shortage by company size
- 89% of companies with fewer than 10 employees have recruitment problems.
- The shortage of skilled workers varies depending on the size of the company; the global average is 73% to 76%.
Skills shortage in key industries
- 92% in Energy & Utilities have difficulty finding talent.
- 89% in Healthcare & Life Sciences and Information Technology report similar problems.
Qualifications that are difficult to find
- IT & data skills are most in demand, followed by engineering (30%).
- 42% of employers in Germany are looking for IT and data skills.
Measures against the shortage of skilled workers
- 27% of employers offer more flexibility in working hours.
- 23% focus on further qualification and retraining of employees.
- 21% increase wages to attract talent.