Global Tech Hiring Stays Strong as U.S. Sees Q2 Improvement

Key Takeaways

• US tech NEO rises to 41%, still below last year.
• Global tech NEO reaches 45%, nine points YoY growth.
• 73% of firms cite skill shortages, AI most critical.
• Upskilling and wage increases top employer strategies worldwide.
• India leads hiring confidence with 69% outlook.

Summary

Tech hiring in the United States is stabilizing, with the Q2 2026 Net Employment Outlook climbing to 41%, an eight‑point rise yet still five points below a year ago. Globally, the outlook improves to 45%, up four points quarter‑over‑quarter and nine points year‑over‑year, reflecting sustained demand for tech talent. Skills shortages persist, as 73% of global and 74% of U.S. employers report difficulty filling roles, especially in artificial‑intelligence. Employers are prioritizing upskilling, wage growth, flexible work and broader talent pools to mitigate scarcity.

Pulse Analysis

The latest Experis Tech Talent Outlook shows the United States moving out of a hiring lull. A Net Employment Outlook of 41% for Q2 2026 marks the first quarter‑over‑quarter improvement since early 2025, suggesting that corporate budgets for digital projects are regaining momentum. While the figure remains below the pre‑pandemic baseline, the rise reflects greater employer confidence amid ongoing technology refresh cycles in finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Globally, the tech labor market is more buoyant, with a 45% outlook and a nine‑point year‑over‑year gain. Yet the headline masks a chronic talent shortage: nearly three‑quarters of firms report difficulty sourcing qualified candidates, particularly for artificial‑intelligence, cloud, and data roles. To address this, companies are investing heavily in upskilling current staff, raising wages, and expanding flexible work options. These strategies aim to retain existing talent while widening the pipeline through underrepresented groups, a trend that mirrors broader diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Regional dynamics add nuance to the recovery narrative. Asia Pacific leads with India posting a 69% outlook, driven by aggressive AI and digital transformation agendas. In the Americas, Brazil’s 63% outlook underscores strong demand in emerging markets, whereas Europe shows mixed signals, with the UAE matching Asian optimism at 69% while Central‑Eastern nations lag. For tech professionals, the message is clear: expertise in AI, cloud, and data, coupled with strong soft skills, remains highly prized. Candidates who can demonstrate both technical depth and collaborative ability will find the most opportunities across these divergent markets.