Staying updated on the latest workforce trends is crucial for TA leaders and HR professionals. This week, we delve into three significant developments shaping the talent landscape and get SocialTalent CEO, Johnny Campbell’s first-hand takes on these pieces.
- NBC reports that hiring is booming in healthcare, engineering, finance, and oil & gas, as industries rebound and scramble for top talent.
- HRD reveals a growing skills gap, making hiring tougher than ever. With AI and upskilling on the rise, will recruiters keep up?
- MSN exposes the red flags that can ruin a job application—from AI-generated cover letters to bad-mouthing employers. Are you noticing these mistakes?
Join us as we explore these pivotal insights and their implications for the future of work.
1. Employers in These 4 Industries are Hiring ‘like crazy,’ says Recruiting Expert of 20 Years
Source: NBC
Hiring is surging in 2025, with healthcare, engineering, finance, and oil and gas leading the way. Healthcare providers are addressing burnout, turnover, and a nursing shortage, while oil and gas optimism stems from policy changes under the new administration. Finance and tech companies are rebounding from conservative hiring during recession fears in 2023-2024. Despite increased competition for roles, job seekers face a more optimistic market this year.
Johnny Campbell’s take on this:
“So 2025 is going to signal a return to the boom days for recruiters; at least according to this senior recruiting leader. And whom should we credit? Trump of course! I don’t know about you but there seems to be an equal number of articles claiming that Trump will be the saviour of the economy as those who say he is going to destroy it. But one thing I would bet on is that people BELIEVE the jobs market is getting better, which in itself should trigger higher attrition and more work for recruiters! Only time will tell who is right!“
2. Hiring Getting Harder Amid Skills Mismatch, HR Says
Source: HRD
Hiring in the Asia-Pacific region is increasingly challenging due to a skills mismatch between applicants and role requirements, according to LinkedIn research. While 61% of HR professionals report difficulties finding qualified talent, 64% of job applications fail to meet listed criteria. Top challenges include gaps in technical (52%) and soft skills (48%). To address this, 78% of HR leaders prioritize upskilling and see AI-powered hiring tools as key to mitigating skills gaps and streamlining recruitment processes.
Johnny Campbell’s take on this:
“If you needed further evidence that you’re not alone in feeling that recruiting is getting harder, here it is. The massive decline in attrition globally means that there are less people moving jobs, combined with an increasing challenge to find future skills, making 2025 a tough market for recruiters. Is AI the solution? Read on to find out!“
3. Recruiters Share the Red Flags They Look Out For in Job Candidates
Source: MSN
Recruiters shared key red flags that can hurt candidates’ chances during interviews. Common issues include lateness, showing disrespect for time, and relying on AI-generated cover letters, which hinder assessment of communication skills. Failing to include a tailored cover letter signals a lack of effort, while bad-mouthing former employers, lying, or being unprepared damage credibility. Avoiding relocation questions can indicate a lack of seriousness. Preparedness, honesty, and professionalism remain critical for success.
Johnny Campbell’s take on this:
“Don’t lie? Don’t be late for the interview? Sounds like a no brainer but not to some candidates! However, saying that the absence of a cover letter means you don’t have a good work ethic and not being willing to relocate anywhere in the world is a red flag? Come on! We need to weed these recruiters and hiring managers out of the process folks!“