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The job market will continue to recover in the first half of 2022, according to new research by Robert Half. The majority (65%) of senior managers who took part in the survey look to add new permanent positions during the first half of the year, a 14-point increase from 6 months ago. 

According to the “State of U.S. Hiring: First Half of 2022” report, more than 3 in 10 (33%) senior managers expect to fill vacated positions in the first half of the year. An additional 71% plan to bring in more contract professionals in 2022. The greatest hiring needs are in customer support (72%) and marketing (69%).

Companies are employing multiple strategies to attract candidates, including:

  • Increasing starting salaries (55%)
  • Offering remote options and evaluating candidates outside of their office’s geography (50%)
  • Providing signing bonuses (44%)

Paul McDonald, Robert Half senior executive director, said that today’s professionals have more negotiating power and career options than ever. “In order to land the best talent, employers must move quickly, create a positive candidate experience from the initial contact to the job offer, and provide competitive salaries and flexible work options,” he said.