The percentage of companies with difficulty hiring grows to 84%

The last edition of the Robert Half Confidence Index (ICRH) in 2024 revealed that 84% of companies are struggling to hire, a three percentage point increase compared to the previous quarter. Among recruitment professionals, 67% believe the situation will remain unchanged over the next six months, while 28% foresee even greater challenges.

The ICRH, developed to monitor the perception of qualified professionals about the job market and the economy, registered a recovery after two quarters of decline. In its 30th edition, the confidence indicator for the current scenario rose 1.9 points. Expectations for the future also improved, although the index still remains in the pessimism zone (below 50 points).

"This modest advance reflects an economic scenario that, although showing signs of recovery, still faces challenges such as fiscal instability, high interest rates, and the appreciation of the dollar. In this context, companies must adopt rigorous criteria to ensure that new talent possesses the competencies and vision necessary for the business to take off," assesses Fernando Mantovani, General Director of Robert Half for South America.

Confidence in the job market – consolidated (in points)

 
The study also presents indicators for the three categories interviewed: professionals responsible for recruitment in companies, employed professionals, and unemployed professionals. The perception of the current scenario improved from the perspective of all three groups, especially recruiters, whose index rose by 1.4 points. Regarding the next six months, the reduction in pessimism continued among recruiters and employed professionals.

Compared to the same period in 2023, all groups demonstrated more confidence in the current scenario. However, expectations for the future became slightly less optimistic.

Unemployment reaches a new historic high

Among the factors driving the indicator is the decrease in the unemployment rate, which reached its lowest historical level in the third quarter of 2024: 6.4% for the general population and 3% among qualified professionals (both with a 0.5 percentage point reduction compared to the previous period).

According to an analysis by Robert Half, the qualified labor market is experiencing near full employment. Professionals with skills aligned with market demands tend to remain unemployed for a short time, or even at the same company. 

This scenario favors the creation of new jobs. Robert Half 2025 Salary Guide points out that 44% of Brazilian companies plan to open permanent positions next year, while 32% intend to increase temporary hires for projects lasting up to six months.

"To attract and retain talent in a competitive landscape, companies must offer attractive compensation and benefits packages, invest in professional development, create psychologically safe environments, and, where possible, meet demands for flexibility," advises Mantovani.

These factors were even indicated in the HCR 30 as reasons for recruiters to be concerned when thinking about 2025. The top five, according to the study, are:

• Economic unpredictability (56%)
• Difficulty filling open positions (37%)
• Fear of losing key professionals to other companies (35%)
• Stagnant wages (35%)
• Results below expectations in 2024 (21%)

Employed professionals gain prominence

The low unemployment rates have increased the prominence of employed professionals, especially those focused on continuous development in high-demand areas. The main goals for 2025, according to the interviewees, include:

• Skills development (59%)
• Financial growth and stability (50%)
• Work-life balance (451%)
• Career advancement and promotions (341%)
• Exploring new career opportunities (29%)

In addition, 61% of employees feel more secure about their job stability, a five-percentage-point increase. Regarding the next six months, 70% expect the current scenario to be maintained, while 24% believe in greater job security.

Unemployed people signal challenges

Among the unemployed, 34% believe that their chances of re-employment will increase in the next six months. However, 31% remain pessimistic, citing age-related difficulties, prejudice or discrimination, fierce competition, and lack of opportunities in their areas of expertise as the main challenges.

"For these professionals, the focus should be on continuous education and the development of adaptability. Seeking qualification opportunities in line with market trends, maintaining an active network of contacts, and being open to new experiences is extremely important. Standing still is not an option,” advises the managing director of Robert Half.