KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 28): 56% of employers indicated recruitment will be challenging this quarter, as they are unable to find the right candidates to fill positions, according to a Jobstreet.com report.

Titled Job Outlook Report, the study highlighted that talents in the top three specialisations that are the most in demand and the most difficult to hire for this quarter, are the engineering, sales/marketing and the accounting industry.

When it comes to the peak recruitment period, 72% of employers said it would be between the first and second quarter of the year.

"Employees would then be able to find more job opportunities this quarter, and should make sure their résumés are updated," the report said.

According to the Jobstreet’s report, 95% of employers surveyed said they would give a pay rise to retain existing staff, on top of giving bonuses.

However, for this year, the average bonus pay-out across most industries would be 1.4 months, which is slightly lower than the average bonus pay-out of 1.7 months in 2014, said the report.

The finance and banking sector will still be paying the highest bonus, with an average of 2.5 months.

"The good news is that on top of the bonus, employers will continue to provide other benefits, in addition to a pay rise and bonus. This includes transportation, healthcare, and private expenses such as mobile usage and travelling allowances," the report added.

As for whether receiving a bonus or increment would entice employees to stay, 42% of respondents said they would still look for better job opportunities. They added company management and career growth opportunities are the main determining factors for choosing to stay in the current company.