More than half of firms (55%) have encountered difficulties recruiting in the last six months, according to research by Alexander Mann Solutions.

The survey of global senior HR decision makers shows that 70% cite difficulties to a skills shortage in the candidate pool. This is a particular issue for companies in the UK (76%) and less pronounced in Asia-Pac (60%).

Meanwhile, just 33% of companies rate themselves as “good” or “excellent” when it comes to using innovative and creative approaches to secure new talent, while more than half (53%) of HR professionals surveyed consider that their organisation is “good” or “excellent” in terms of having flexibility in the recruitment process.

One in five of HR leaders identified a lack of flexibility in the type of candidate sought.

Rosaleen Blair, CEO and founder of Alexander Mann Solutions, says: “The last 12 months have been difficult for the business community, and as we move into a more positive new year, the war for talent is set to continue.

“HR professionals will have a key role to play in identifying and retaining skilled workers. As competition to attract this top talent hots up, it’s going to be essential for organisations to take a more strategic and innovative approach when implementing recruitment policies.”