Lawyers and accountants are the hardest occupations to recruit at the moment, according to an Institute of Directors survey, as industry leaders warn of staff shortages across the board.

In its poll, conducted between 23 July and 11 August, 31% of the 739 respondents said professional services jobs, such as lawyers and accountants, are the most difficult to recruit. In addition, 20% reported having trouble hiring managers at junior and mid-level positions.