Ireland Leads Europe in Hiring Optimism for Q4 2025
Ireland has emerged as the most optimistic country in Europe for hiring in the final quarter of 2025, according to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey. With a Net Employment Outlook of +29%, Irish employers are showing remarkable confidence as the year draws to a close.
This strong outlook reflects more than just seasonal uplift — nearly half (49%) of employers report that their hiring is driven by business growth, rather than replacement. It’s a clear sign that Irish businesses are investing in expansion and planning for a strong year ahead.
Key Highlights from the Q4 2025 Report
Growth-driven hiring: 49% of employers are hiring to support business growth.
Sector hot spots: IT and Pharma continue to dominate staffing growth, reinforcing their role as engines of Ireland’s economy.
Regional strength: Employers in Munster lead the country in confidence, closely followed by Dublin.
Talent challenge: While 70% of employers consider their hiring processes efficient, attracting qualified candidates remains the number one challenge.
Company size matters: Large organisations (250+ employees) are the most optimistic about hiring plans.
Retention focus: Employers are prioritising work–life balance as the leading strategy to retain key staff.
A Positive Outlook, With Challenges Ahead
The strong hiring sentiment shows Ireland’s economy is in a growth phase, but the difficulty in attracting qualified candidates underlines a persistent challenge. Companies will need to continue adapting their strategies — whether through flexible working, reskilling initiatives, or stronger employer branding — to secure the talent they need.
As 2025 heads into its final quarter, Ireland stands out in Europe as a leader in hiring optimism, setting the stage for continued momentum into 2026.