The 2018 Talent Assessment Study highlights significant trends and challenges in hiring and retaining top talent, particularly emphasizing the importance of candidate experience and thorough skill assessments. The use of technology, including AI and big data, is transforming the talent acquisition landscape, leading to a substantial increase (114% year-over-year growth) in the adoption of talent assessment tools across various industries. Key trends include the focus on precise skill measurements, behavioral assessments, and an enhanced emphasis on learning and development to improve employee retention and job suitability.