What are the three biggest challenges facing SMEs?

Additionally, a significant proportion believe that strong leadership is currently lacking within their organisation.

When looking at implementing new digital solutions, two in five say their leadership team is resistant to change (41%), a further two in five say they have poor soft skills (40%), while three in 10 cite a lack of communication (30%).

Matt Weston, managing director of Robert UK, commented: “SMEs planning for the future will need strong leadership now more than ever to cope with economic uncertainty, ongoing digitalisation efforts and increased competition.”

“To build out their teams and overcome the skills gap, many businesses are now adopting flexible recruitment strategies so they can move quickly to secure their desired candidates. Developing a strong pipeline of talent and planning succession carefully in advance will ensure companies cultivate a strong leadership team – one that is capable of navigating through uncertain times.”