MORE THAN a third of companies participating in a study conducted by recruitment firm Michael Page Philippines said they are looking to hire more employees.

In a statement Wednesday, Michael Page Philippines said its Talent Trends 2021 Report found that 35% of companies surveyed are “looking to increase their headcount” in 2021.

The report also found that 45% of employers chose to retain their employees this year even during the downturn in business caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Michael Page reported that “56% of companies cited their continued investment in employees by upskilling the workforce with training while 56% turned to the use of automation for basic processes.”

It found strong hiring demand for technology professionals in financial technology, logistics, and consumer platforms.

Michael Page Managing Director Olly Riches said in a statement, “Acquiring and retaining high-potential talent will be crucial to enable companies to build sustainable operations to position for future growth.”

In-demand jobs apart from tech, Mr. Riches said, are in healthcare startups, adding “The talent demand in the healthcare and life sciences industries remain strong, as businesses continue to navigate the challenges of a pandemic and acknowledge the importance of having the right people at the top to maximize their outcomes.” — Gillian M. Cortez