· 31% of employers make new hires in 2024, while 41% of companies will maintain their number of employees at the same level, according to the results of a study by AFSRU – the Association of Human Resources Service Providers.
· The economic context forces 28% of employers to cut staff, necessary to optimize costs, show the results of the study in which more than 100 private companies participated.
In the current economic context, marked by global uncertainties and financial pressures, Romanian companies are significantly adjusting their expectations regarding the evolution of the number of employees in 2024. A new survey conducted by the Association of Human Resources Service Providers, AFSRU, among companies from various economic sectors it shows a change in attitude from the previous year, with a much more cautious approach to future employment.
According to the data, only 24% of companies estimate a slight increase in the number of employees in 2024, compared to 46% in 2023, this decrease being influenced by the increase in salary costs, economic uncertainties and the need to optimize internal resources.
Also, 41% of companies plan to maintain their current headcount, up from 31% last year, reflecting an increasing focus on stability and consolidation, with an emphasis on retention and efficiency of current teams rather than rapid expansion.
“In the current economic environment, companies are becoming more conservative in terms of hiring. Although the desire for growth is there, external pressures – such as rising operational costs and global uncertainties – are driving a more cautious approach. We observe a clear tendency to consolidate and maximize the efficiency of internal resources”, said Sorina Donisa, President of AFSRU.
At the same time, 21% of companies estimate a slight decrease in the number of employees in 2024, an increase compared to the previous year, when only 15% anticipated this. This trend shows that firms are prepared to make tactical adjustments based on market developments and economic challenges, but without implementing drastic staff reduction measures.
The survey also highlights that sizeable increases or decreases in the workforce remain rare, with most companies preferring moderate adjustments based on operational needs and market conditions.
Temporary work remains one of the main options for employers in 2024, continuing to provide the flexibility the market needs. With 42% of companies using it, temporary employment allows quick adaptation to market demands and coverage of specific personnel needs. Employers find this to be one of the most effective solutions to navigate the challenges of a dynamic market and ensure project continuity without committing long-term permanent resources.
According to data from 2024, talent attraction and retention remain critical priorities for companies. Despite attempts to stabilize the workforce, talent shortages continue to plague the market and the battle for talent remains fierce. 67% of companies see talent retention as one of their biggest challenges, up significantly from the previous year. At the same time, 63% of organizations prioritize talent acquisition, emphasizing the constant need to find and attract the best specialists.
And even more extreme… they are cutting the higher paid ones to get lower paid workforce. Well, I refuse to go anywhere unless they pay for my experience a minimum of 10K Euros per month. They loose!