3 Things Automotive Employers Are Doing to Attract Better Talent in 2026
Despite vacancies softening across parts of the UK economy, attracting quality talent in the automotive aftermarket remains a challenge. Recent labour market data shows unemployment has risen and vacancies have fallen, yet many employers are still struggling to secure experienced sales, technical and operational professionals.
Based on our recruitment data and conversations with employers across the sector, here are three trends I’m seeing in 2026:
- Looking Beyond Traditional Automotive Backgrounds
More businesses are successfully hiring candidates from allied industries and focusing on transferable skills rather than direct aftermarket experience alone.
In our recruitment reports, a significant proportion of successful placements have come from outside the automotive aftermarket, helping employers widen their talent pool and bring fresh thinking into their teams. Skills-based hiring is becoming a practical solution to ongoing talent shortages.
- Moving Faster Through the Recruitment Process
The strongest candidates rarely stay available for long. Employers who streamline interviews, provide clear feedback and make timely decisions are securing talent ahead of competitors.
We’re seeing increasing demand for speed, transparency and communication throughout the hiring journey. Businesses that reduce delays are often achieving better hiring outcomes and stronger candidate engagement.
- Hiring for Future Potential, Not Just Today’s Vacancy
Forward-thinking employers are taking a longer-term view of recruitment. Rather than replacing like-for-like, they’re considering how roles may evolve as technology, AI, data and changing customer expectations continue to shape the aftermarket.
The most successful hiring strategies are focusing on adaptability, commercial awareness and growth potential alongside technical capability.
I’m seeing first-hand how businesses that embrace broader talent pools, move decisively and plan for future skills are gaining a competitive advantage in today’s market.
Need support attracting the right people? I’d be happy to share what I’m seeing across the sector.
Glen Shepherd
Glen has been successfully recruiting in the Automotive Aftermarket for over 27 years and has worked in the sector in Sales Management for much much longer!
As a specialist recruiter he sees first hand daily what is and isn’t working in the world of recruitment and enjoys sharing this knowledge with clients and candidates.
Look out for Glens “open diary” Fridays where he shares his knowledge in a Q & A session or call him directly for assistance on successful job seeking or recruiting. gshepherd@glencallum.co.uk or 07977266309
Check out our further related articles:
Meet the employer – how to simplify your screening process with great results
AI in recruitment – How AI tools highlight potential candidates
What if your next top performer wasn’t from the automotive aftermarket? – as specialists in the field we are still introducing great talent from adjacent industries
