As we look ahead to the hiring challenges of 2025, our two recent LinkedIn polls shed light on the evolving obstacles faced by both employers and job seekers. With the job market constantly changing, understanding these challenges can help businesses and candidates alike stay ahead of the curve.
The Challenges Job Seekers Face in 2025
The first poll focused on the struggles job seekers encounter during their search. While opportunities are out there, finding the right fit remains a major concern:
Lack of Relevant Openings (69%): The overwhelming majority of respondents pointed to a lack of job opportunities that match their skills and experience. As industries shift and job requirements evolve, many professionals find themselves searching for roles that may no longer exist in their current form.
LinkedIn follower Michelle shared her frustration:
"Too many people applying for the same position and my resume being lost in the mix."
Similarly, Kevin highlighted the long search process many job seekers face:
"A lot of us have real-life experience and have been in our expertise roles for a while, but due to the job market, a lot of people continue to struggle. I am one of them, 90 days later, still searching every day."
For many professionals, persistence is key, but upskilling, networking, and exploring adjacent industries can also improve job prospects.
Interview Nerves (15%): Even the most qualified candidates can struggle with interview anxiety. The pressure of presenting oneself well in a short period can be daunting. As companies increasingly rely on structured interviews and behavioral assessments, job seekers can benefit from mock interviews and confidence-building techniques to improve their performance.
However, Victoria sees this as a skill that improves over time:
"I think challenges like these tend to disappear with time and practice. Job hunting is about strategy, resumes get easier the more you write, interviews are just practice, and tech skills come with use. The real challenge is often something deeper—like finding the right fit or breaking into a new industry."
Writing Resumes/Cover Letters (11%): Standing out in a crowded job market requires well-crafted resumes and cover letters, yet many job seekers struggle with how to showcase their skills effectively.
Elisabeth shared her experience with the frustration of not even getting the opportunity to interview:
"Just getting the chance to interview. I know what I am worth, but no one is giving me a chance to even talk about what I can do. I get more rejections than I get interview requests. I only apply for positions I 100% know I could be successful in and an asset to the company. It’s very frustrating when they send a rejection stating I don’t meet the needs for what they are looking for.
With applicant tracking systems (ATS) playing a bigger role in hiring, tailoring resumes with the right keywords and formatting is more important than ever.
Keeping Up with Technology (5%): While a smaller percentage of respondents cited technology as a barrier, staying updated on industry tools and digital trends remains crucial. Candidates who proactively learn new systems and software relevant to their field will have a competitive edge in securing opportunities.
The Challenges Employers Face in 2025 Hiring
On the other side of the hiring equation, employers are facing their own set of difficulties in securing top talent. The second poll revealed four major concerns:
Finding Skilled Candidates (42%): The biggest hiring challenge employers anticipate in 2025 is sourcing qualified talent. Industries like technology, healthcare, and skilled trades continue to experience a shortage of workers with the right expertise. To combat this, companies may need to invest in training programs, internal talent development, and alternative talent pipelines.
Offering Competitive Salaries (30%): As the job market remains competitive, compensation expectations are rising. Employers are under pressure to balance budget constraints while attracting and retaining top talent. Beyond salary, companies must offer strong benefits, career growth opportunities, and workplace flexibility to stay competitive.
Managing Hybrid/Remote Work (23%): The shift to hybrid and remote work remains a significant challenge. Companies must balance flexibility with collaboration, productivity, and culture-building. Employers that develop clear policies, invest in communication tools, and foster engagement across in-office and remote teams will be better positioned for long-term success.
Managing Recruitment Timelines (5%): While only a small percentage of respondents saw recruitment timelines as a major issue, speed still matters in today’s hiring environment. Delayed decision-making can lead to losing top candidates to competitors. Employers should streamline hiring processes and leverage technology to make timely decisions.
How Businesses and Job Seekers Can Adapt
The insights highlight the evolving challenges in the hiring landscape of 2025. Job seekers must focus on adaptability, continuous learning, and refining their job search strategies. Employers, meanwhile, must rethink how they attract, engage, and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive market.
By understanding these challenges, both candidates and hiring managers can take proactive steps to succeed. Whether it’s refining hiring strategies, investing in skills development, or improving job search techniques, the key to success in 2025 will be staying ahead of workforce trends.
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