Hiring managers say jobs exist but are harder to fill

A survey reveals 21% of open roles are permanently closed without being filled. More than 2 in 5 U.S. hiring managers, specifically 43%, report it takes longer to fill positions than two years ago. Lara Ewen reported these findings for HR Dive on August 19, 2026. The data highlights a persistent labor market friction where vacancies remain unfilled or are eliminated entirely. This trend underscores the difficulty employers face in securing talent despite existing job openings. The survey data provides a quantitative measure of the current hiring bottleneck. Managers cite extended timelines as a primary operational challenge.

Only daily AI users feel positively about job security

A SurveyMonkey and CNBC survey reveals that only daily AI users feel positively about job security. The organizations surveyed 1,686 workers and students in the U.S. in July. Results released Monday show 30% use AI daily, 34% use it a few times a week, and 37% never use it. Only daily users report positive feelings regarding the technology’s effect on their job security. Respondents using AI a few times a week or less say AI makes them feel less secure. Unclear AI policies and a lack of training are compounding employee concerns about the technology.

Also in the News