Free report

Solving the 7 disconnects between job seekers and employers

Although employers and job seekers agree that hiring seems to be getting harder, they can’t seem to align on why that’s the case.1 Employers struggle to find qualified applicants while job seekers think they’re competing against too many qualified candidates. What’s really going on?

Our latest research report, Smarter Hiring Insights: Solving the 7 Disconnects That Make Hiring Harder, explores the common reasons behind missed connections between employers and job seekers—and offers strategies for bridging the gaps.

Download it today to understand:

  • The skills employers are looking for vs. what job seekers think they want
  • Which elements of a job offer each group thinks is most attractive
  • How the two groups differ in their views on AI usage and upskilling
  • What employers can do to solve the disconnects with job seekers

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1 Indeed Smarter Hiring With Data-Driven Insights: Quality and Skills Edition

Research report showing hiring process disconnects between job seekers and employers

Thank you for your interest in Smarter Hiring Insights: Solving the 7 Disconnects That Make Hiring Harder. Keep an eye on your inbox for more hiring and workforce management insights.

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Frequently asked questions

Who should read this document?

This report is designed for recruiters, HR professionals, team leaders, executives, and business owners who want to understand 
the reasons behind the missed connections between employers and job seekers, with advice on how to bridge those gaps.

How do I get my free report?

Simply fill out the form on this page to receive instant access to Smarter Hiring Insights: Solving the 7 Disconnects That Make Hiring Harder in your inbox.

How was the research conducted?

The insights in this report are based on an Indeed-commissioned survey of job seekers and employers in 12 countries conducted April 30–May 19, 2025.

What are the disconnects examined in this report?

The disconnects explored in this report include the gap between what employers and job seekers think about the skills that candidates should be highlighting in applications, what matters most to job seekers, the use of AI in 
the hiring process, and who’s responsible for employee upskilling.