Employers are entering 2026 with improved hiring intentions, yet significant skills gaps and AI-related impacts are expected to influence talent strategies, according to a Supply Chain Dive analysis of a recent Express Employment Professionals and Harris Poll survey.
Hiring Confidence Rises, But Skill Deficits Persist
A majority of hiring decision‑makers surveyed said they plan to increase headcount in the first half of 2026, marking the highest level of hiring intent since the survey began in 2020. However, more than one‑third of employers reported open roles they can’t fill, with skills deficiencies — not compensation or benefits — emerging as the top barrier.
According to the report, 50% of respondents identified a lack of relevant experience among applicants, and 26% said they struggled to evaluate informal or self‑taught skills. This mismatch underscores ongoing challenges in aligning candidate capabilities with employer needs in a rapidly evolving job market.
AI’s Dual Role: Opportunity and Obstacle
The survey highlights artificial intelligence (AI) as a central force in workforce planning. While AI adoption is driving innovation and efficiency, employers also cite “AI‑related complexities” as a key hiring obstacle. Korn Ferry analysis referenced in the article suggests that AI could disrupt traditional entry‑level and back‑office roles, leading some organizations to reconsider staffing models.
Indeed, AI’s impact is not confined to job displacement; it is reshaping skill requirements and recruitment processes, amplifying the value of digital literacy and advanced technical competencies. Broader labor market research shows that AI adoption will increasingly demand specialized skills and adaptability from candidates, reinforcing the need for strategic upskilling and workforce development.
Strategic Hiring in a Competitive 2026 Market
Despite these challenges, hiring sentiment remains generally positive. Parallel industry surveys indicate that 85% of hiring managers maintain a favorable outlook for 2026, and many companies plan to expand into new markets and skill areas rather than just replace existing roles.
Yet, workforce experts warn that technical skills and talent pipelines remain constrained, prompting employers to consider contingent staffing strategies and targeted training programs to meet demand.
As the year unfolds, employers will likely balance optimism with pragmatism — prioritizing roles tied to growth and digital transformation while navigating a complex, AI‑influenced labor landscape.
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Dan Craft
Staff Report
Staff Report
