Finding the right employee has always been important, but hiring in 2026 is becoming more complicated. Businesses are looking for people who can perform their current roles while also adapting to new technologies, changing customer expectations and evolving ways of working.
South Africa’s skills gap is making this challenge more visible. Recent industry data shows that only 42% of applicants have the qualifications required for most advertised IT jobs, while businesses continue to report difficulty finding work-ready digital talent.
For businesses, the challenge is therefore not simply finding people who are available. It is finding people with the right combination of skills, experience and ability to learn.
Skills Are Changing
Technology is changing what employers expect from employees. AI, digital platforms and automation are becoming part of everyday business operations.
This means some technical skills can become outdated quickly. Employers increasingly need people who are willing to learn new tools and adapt as their roles change.
In 2026, a candidate’s ability to learn may be almost as important as what they already know.
Experience Still Matters
One of the biggest challenges for employers is finding candidates who are both qualified and work-ready.
South Africa produces graduates with relevant qualifications, but businesses can still struggle to find candidates with practical workplace experience. Recent research has highlighted the gap between formal training and the practical skills employers require.
This creates a difficult situation for young job seekers. Entry-level positions may require experience, while candidates need employment to gain that experience.
Businesses can help address this by creating internships, learnerships, mentorship programmes and structured entry-level opportunities.
Hiring Beyond the CV
Qualifications remain important, but they are not the only way to assess potential.
Employers can also look at problem-solving, communication, adaptability, curiosity and the ability to work with others.
Recent discussions around recruitment in South Africa point to growing interest in continuous learning, cultural alignment and internal mobility rather than relying only on traditional credentials.
Flexibility Can Expand the Talent Pool
Businesses can also reconsider where talent needs to come from.
Remote and hybrid work are becoming more established in South Africa, giving employers access to candidates outside their immediate location. Pnet reported that remote employment increased by 28% in the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025.
For businesses struggling to find specialised skills locally, flexible working can provide access to a wider talent pool.
Build Talent, Not Just Hire It
The hiring challenge may ultimately require businesses to become better at developing people.
Instead of searching endlessly for the perfect candidate, companies can hire for potential and invest in training, mentoring and career development.
In a rapidly changing economy, the right employee may not be someone who already knows everything. It may be someone who can learn, adapt and grow with the business.
