The future of recruitment: a mixed-methods scenario analysis in Germany

The shortage of skilled workers is becoming increasingly concerning for companies, as it poses a significant risk to their competitiveness. To counter this shortage, recruiting professionals need to be more effective than ever before. To obtain an evidence-based evaluation of the likely developments in recruiting in Germany, a scenario study was conducted. To comprehensively address our common research question, we employ a mixed-methods approach, integrating both qualitative interviews and a quantitative survey. This combination allows us to capture a broad range of data, providing a deeper understanding of the research problem. After an initial qualitative survey of experts from practice and academia, various scenarios for the future of recruiting were developed. These scenarios were then evaluated in a subsequent quantitative study by 208 practitioners in terms of their impact on the current and future situation as well as on the practical work of recruiters. Overall, the study reveals significant challenges that will be confronted in recruitment up to the year 2035. If these scenarios materialise, companies in general and recruiting departments in particular will encounter a substantial need for change in the forthcoming years.