74% of Companies are Not Testing for Digital Skills

Most UK businesses are struggling to fill crucial digital roles due to a scarcity of qualified candidates. Surprisingly, a recent study reveals that only a quarter of these employers are conducting digital competency tests for technical positions, potentially setting themselves up for failure with their hires.

The global talent shortage is reaching unprecedented levels, particularly in the UK where almost half of employers report difficulty finding workers to meet demands. This shortage is even more acute in countries like France and Italy. Compounded by concerns that existing employees are increasingly likely to leave, companies are rushing their recruitment efforts, often prioritising speed over quality.

According to research by Mobilunity, a significant majority of UK companies (74%) are neglecting to test candidates' digital skills during the hiring process. Additionally, a considerable portion (32%) are entrusting non-technical staff with the responsibility of hiring for technical roles, resulting in nearly a quarter of hires lacking the necessary tech skills.

Despite the urgency to fill roles quickly, the recruitment process for technical positions often drags on for over a month, and in some cases, up to six months. Rushing through unsuitable candidates to the next stage of interviews is proving to be a wasteful practice, with around half of businesses advancing a significant portion of technical candidates despite their unsuitability.

This rush to fill roles quickly is resulting in a mere 7% of firms believing that new technical hires are ready to contribute immediately upon joining. Nearly half of new hires require further investment in their skills post-hiring.

In light of these challenges, it's evident that a rush to fill digital roles can lead to costly mistakes. However, if you're in need of immediate resources without compromising quality, Certes can offer solutions. Whether you require a managed service or short-term contractors to bridge the gap during your recruitment process, we've got you covered. Additionally, if you're searching for the perfect candidate, our IT recruitment division can assist in finding the right fit for your organisation. Don't let the pressure of time impact the quality of your hires. Contact Certes today to ensure seamless recruitment and a skilled workforce.