ManpowerGroup Inc. Press Release: Tech Hiring Outlook for Q4 2025

The data indicates that while U.S. tech hiring is experiencing a slowdown compared to the previous year, it remains one of the labor market's most promising sectors. The Net Employment Outlook (NEO) for the fourth quarter stands at 46%, a slight decrease of two points from Q3 and four points from the same period last year. However, this figure is notably ten points above the global average of 36%, ranking the U.S. among the top hiring outlooks worldwide.

The survey reveals that over half (58%) of U.S. tech employers plan to increase their headcount this quarter, while a mere 11% anticipate cuts. Notably, 24% of employers are specifically hiring to keep pace with advancements in digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI). This trend emphasizes the ongoing transformation of the labor market, driven by the need for specialized digital skills.

Kye Mitchell, President of Experis U.S., emphasized the complexities within the labor market, stating, “The story isn't that jobs are vanishing, it's that the bar for skills is rising. AI is part of that story, but not as a replacement for people. The real challenge is the skills mismatch, and companies know they need to invest in the right talent to stay competitive.”

Despite the optimistic hiring outlook, U.S. tech employers face significant challenges, including:

Globally, the hiring expectations also reflect a moderated tech sector, with countries like Belgium (52%), India (48%), and Canada (47%) leading the charge. The U.S. is closely trailing at 46%. This moderation, a decline of two points from the previous quarter, mirrors broader economic uncertainties, although regional variations exist across established tech hubs.

For job seekers proficient in digital skills, the sustained hiring momentum presents significant opportunities, particularly in high-demand areas such as AI implementation, cloud migration, and cybersecurity. Employers are increasingly prioritizing long-term transformation, creating a demand for talent that can navigate this digital shift.

The findings in the Q4 2025 Experis Tech Talent Outlook are based on the ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey, which is recognized as one of the most comprehensive forward-looking employment surveys globally. This survey involved interviews with 6,533 IT employers across 42 countries, focusing on hiring intentions for the fourth quarter of 2025. Data collection occurred from July 1-31, 2025, with standardized organizational sizes and sectors to facilitate international comparisons.

The next report covering hiring expectations for Q1 2026 is set to be released in December 2025, providing further insights into the evolving dynamics of the job market.

In summary, while the U.S. tech hiring landscape is experiencing a cooling effect, it remains robust compared to other sectors and countries, underscoring the importance of digital skills in the future of work. As companies adapt to the changing technological environment, the demand for specialized talent will continue to grow, presenting both challenges and opportunities in the labor market.