More than half of IT employers expect to increase headcount in 2018, according to the 2018 US Salary Guide from Hays plc, the world’s sixth-largest staffing firm. However, new technology is outpacing training, causing a tech skills shortage that is affecting three-quarters of IT employers.

The survey found 44% of employers increased full time headcount in 2017 and 51% said they will increase headcount again in 2018. Additionally, 46% of employers increased temporary or contract staffing levels in 2017 and 30% said they will increase staff levels again in 2018.

However, Two-thirds of IT employers said they face a moderate to extreme skills shortage and 89% said skills shortages are negatively affecting business in areas such as productivity, employee satisfaction and staff turnover. Asked about the main causes of skills shortages, 30% of employers cited the lack of available training and professional development, while 28% said new technology is the main cause. According to Hays, this has been an ongoing issue for the IT sector as individuals, education providers, and employers struggle to keep up with a constantly evolving market.

“With new technology outpacing available training and development, IT employers need to take a multi-pronged approach to finding and securing the talent they need,” said David Brown, Hays US executive VP. “Planning ahead is critical in making sure companies have the workforce they need to meet their objectives, from building a great employer brand for attraction, to introducing internal training programs and career paths to grow their own talent and retain high-potential employees.”

The Hays US 2018 Salary Guide is based on a survey of more than 3,000 US professionals, managers and employers.