A lack of training in many companies means positions are increasingly unfilled, even by internal applicants.

Findings in the latest Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development Recruitment, Retention and Turnover Survey show less than a third (29%) of companies train existing staff to fill vacancies.

Nicola Monson, author of the report, said: “Actively developing employees should not only increase the internal talent pool, in turn reducing their reliance on external candidates, but also see problems retaining staff ease due to new career opportunities.”

The report suggests companies can overcome a recruitment shortfall by using the employer brand as a recruitment tool, offer flexible working practices to employees and target migrant workers from EU countries and recruit staff from abroad.

Ms Monson added: “All organisations rely on talent so employers need to take a proactive approach to talent management and tap into the skills of the people wanting to contribute and progress.”