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Posted By , Ciara Hennigan

The Main Challenges Organisations Face in Recruiting Top Talent

29 May 2025

At Darwin Hawkins we’re committed to understanding the ever-changing dynamics of talent acquisition. To gain fresh insights, we recently conducted a poll asking our network: "What is the biggest challenge your organisation faces in recruiting top talent?" The results have provided valuable perspective for both employers and job seekers.

 

Candidate Quality: The Leading Challenge

A significant 41% of respondents identified candidate quality as their primary concern. Finding professionals who not only possess the right skills but also fit seamlessly into company culture is an ongoing challenge. As job requirements shift with technological advancements, employers must adapt their search criteria and assessment methods.

 

Salary Demands: A Close Second

At 38%, salary expectations remain a major hurdle. The competition for top talent is driving salaries higher, particularly in high-demand sectors. Employers are challenged to balance competitive compensation with budget realities, making it essential to highlight other aspects of the employee value proposition, such as growth opportunities and workplace culture.

 

Time & Cost of Recruitment: Still a Key Concern

For 21% of respondents, the time and cost associated with recruitment is a significant issue. Lengthy hiring processes can result in missed opportunities and increased expenses. Streamlining recruitment through efficient processes and technology is crucial to staying competitive.

 
Counter Offers: Less of a Threat - for Now

Interestingly, none of the respondents selected counter offers as their top challenge. This suggests that either organisations are differentiating themselves effectively or candidates are making more committed decisions earlier in the process.

 

For Employers and Candidates Alike

For employers, these results reinforce the need to invest in talent pipelines, benchmark compensation, and streamline hiring. For candidates, it’s a reminder that companies are seeking more than just technical skills - adaptability and cultural fit matter.

 

The Value of Partnering with a Reputable Recruitment Company

These challenges highlight the importance of working with a reputable recruitment partner. This will bring several advantages to the table:

  • Access to a wider and higher-quality talent pool: Recruitment specialists have established networks and databases, enabling them to connect employers with candidates who may not be actively searching but are open to the right opportunity.
  • Market expertise and benchmarking: Experienced recruiters have their finger on the pulse of salary trends, skill shortages, and industry shifts, ensuring your offers are competitive and your expectations realistic.
  • Streamlined processes: Recruitment companies can significantly reduce the time and cost of hiring by managing the entire process - from sourcing and screening to onboarding - allowing you to focus on your core business.
  • Objective assessment: A reputable recruitment partner provides unbiased candidate evaluations, helping you identify the best fit for your organisation’s needs and culture.
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