Hiring will remain strong for the rest of the year, according to the talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half.

Its survey of more than 1,500 managers shows that, 46% anticipate adding new permanent positions, another 46% expect to fill vacated positions and only 8% foresee hiring freezes or layoffs.

"Despite talk of an economic slowdown, many companies remain in hiring mode and professionals with in-demand skills continue to have options," said senior executive director Paul McDonald.

"In addition to staffing critical functions, employers are increasingly turning to contract talent to stay nimble while keeping projects moving forward and productivity high."

Also, 45% of managers across practice areas plan to bring in more contract professionals by year-end – especially in technology (60%) and finance and accounting (54%). About 72% of employers say the intend to hire more entry-level or early-career professionals as well.

The Half company research found 88% of managers said admitting that it has been challenging to find skilled professionals, primarily because of a lack of qualified talent (38%) and candidates' salary expectations being higher than what their company is willing to offer (22%).

More than half of managers (51%) reported an increase in voluntary turnover within their department in the last year. And nearly 8 in 10 (78%) are concerned about more employees quitting. Those in marketing and creative (84%) and finance and accounting (79%) are most likely to worry about resignations from their team.

Employers must prepare, McDonald points out, "As long as the job market favors workers, staff retention will continue to be a big concern for businesses. Doubling down on employee wellbeing, empowerment and development initiatives can go a long way toward building staff satisfaction and loyalty as the market fluctuates."