U.S. Employers Plan Aggressive Hiring Surge in Second Half of 2026 — Robert Half Inc.

Event summary

66% of U.S. hiring managers plan to increase permanent staffing in H2 2026, up from 57% a year prior.
Technology (78%), healthcare (75%), and finance/accounting (74%) lead hiring demand by specialization.
Denver (83%), Minneapolis (76%), and San Francisco (73%) top hiring markets for permanent roles.
58% of employers report greater difficulty finding qualified talent compared to 2025.
48% of projects canceled due to skills shortages, with 63% experiencing significant delays.

The big picture

Robert Half's data signals a strategic pivot toward specialized talent acquisition amid persistent skills shortages. The surge in contract hiring (56%) suggests employers are prioritizing flexibility to maintain project momentum, while permanent roles remain critical for long-term growth. This trend aligns with broader industry shifts toward hybrid workforce models and highlights the competitive advantage of regions like Denver and Minneapolis.

What we're watching

Talent Acquisition Pressure: Whether the pace of contract hiring (56%) will outstrip permanent placements as skills gaps persist.
Regional Hiring Disparities: How Denver's 83% hiring rate compares to laggards like Washington, D.C. (57%).
Project Execution Risk: The impact of canceled projects on revenue growth across technology and healthcare sectors.