2026 Talent Trends Report from SHRM

The job market remains challenging for certain high-demand, specialized skills. Like any market, employment is driven by supply and demand. When we invest in developing human capital here at home, businesses can fill positions locally, wages have greater potential to rise, and more money stays circulating within the local economy. The same principle applies to supporting small businesses.

According to SHRM's 2026 Talent Trends Report, nearly 70% of HR professionals continue to have difficulty recruiting full-time employees. While there are signs that the labor market has begun to slow in some areas, many organizations are still struggling to find qualified talent.

As a result, employers are shifting away from relying solely on traditional hiring practices. Many are placing greater emphasis on developing existing employees, promoting internal mobility, expanding job responsibilities, and investing in continuous learning. In addition to technical expertise, organizations are increasingly valuing critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and other transferable skills.

Take a few minutes to read the summary below, and if you're interested, the full report. Understanding current labor market trends can help organizations optimize their recruitment, retention, and workforce development strategies.

SHRM 2026 Talent Trends Report: Data-Driven Insights for the Future of Work

• Nearly 70% of HR professionals reported continued difficulty recruiting full-time employees, with more than half saying hiring has become even more challenging than a year earlier.
• Organizations are shifting from traditional hiring approaches to skills-based talent strategies by emphasizing internal mobility, employee development, and workforce agility to address persistent talent shortages.
• Skills gaps remain a major concern, particularly in systems and resource management competencies such as decision-making, complex problem-solving, and time management.
• Learning and development initiatives—including job rotation, apprenticeships, internships, and mentorship programs—are identified as effective ways to prepare employees for hard-to-fill positions, although some remain underutilized.
• Based on responses from more than 2,000 HR professionals, the report concludes that organizations investing in continuous learning, technology, and inclusive talent practices will be better positioned to build resilient, future-ready workforces.

Society for Human Resource Management. (2026, April 27). SHRM unveils 2026 talent trends report: Data-driven insights for the future of work. https://www.shrm.org/about/press-room/shrm-unveils-2026-talent-trends-report--data-driven-insights-for