What’s Happened So Far
As we reach the midpoint of 2025, one thing is clear: candidates are redefining what they expect from employers.
In a job market transformed by AI, global talent competition, and evolving work norms, today’s job seekers aren’t just chasing salaries. Instead, they’re prioritising flexibility, purpose, well-being, and opportunities to grow. Understanding these shifting expectations isn’t just a nice-to-have for employers; it’s the key to attracting and retaining top talent in an increasingly candidate-driven market.
Here are some moments from 2025 recruitment trends so far:
- In the UK, 51% of business leaders say they’re prioritising AI investment instead of traditional hiring, following increased employer costs.
- 76% of employers globally report talent shortages—the highest on record.
- 67% of HR professionals identify skilled talent competition as their biggest challenge.
- 94% of employers see skills-based hiring as a better predictor of performance.
So, let’s take a look candidates want when job hunting over the next 6 months… and what other recruitment trends from 2025 may form!
1. Flexibility Is Non-Negotiable
As we enter the second half of 2025, one trend is clearer than ever: candidates don’t just want flexible work… they expect it!
The world of work has shifted permanently since the pandemic. While some companies push for office returns, remote and hybrid options remain top priorities for job seekers evaluating employers.
Global recruitment data shows most professionals, especially in tech, marketing, and finance, actively filter jobs for remote or hybrid roles. But flexibility isn’t only about where people work, it’s also about when. Candidates want schedules that fit their lives, whether adjusting hours for caregiving, education, or peak productivity.
The companies winning talent in 2025 are those offering customisable schedules instead of rigid 9–5 hours recognising that flexibility drives engagement, loyalty, and productivity. Businesses resisting this shift face rising turnover, higher hiring costs, and struggles to appeal to today’s workforce.
2. Compensation Must Match Market Realities
As economic pressures persist and living costs stay high, candidates expect compensation that reflects current market realities, not outdated pay structures. Employers who don’t keep up risk losing both potential hires and existing team members to companies that do.
Salary transparency is now essential, with candidates demanding clear pay details in job ads before applying. After all, how likely are you to apply for a role that doesn’t mention salary?
But salary alone isn’t enough to retain talent. Candidates are looking beyond standard benefits like health insurance or bonuses. They want holistic support, including mental health resources, fertility and family planning benefits, sabbaticals, and flexible wellness stipends. Companies tailoring benefits to employees’ evolving needs are more successful at attracting and keeping diverse, high-performing teams.
3. Candidates Want Growth—Not Just a Job
In 2025, candidates are seeking employers who will invest in their growth. As skills requirements shift faster than ever, professionals know that continuous learning is key to staying relevant… so when it comes to looking for opportunities, learning and development is top of the list.
Companies that stand out are those making upskilling and reskilling part of their core strategy. Whether it’s funding certifications, hosting in-house workshops, or giving employees time to learn new technologies, these investments send a clear message that they’re committed to your future. This not only helps retain top talent but also builds a more agile, resilient workforce equipped to handle evolving business needs.
So, how do you stack up?
As we head into the second half of 2025, employers have a clear choice…
…adapt to what candidates want or risk falling behind.
Flexibility, fair and transparent compensation, and real opportunities for growth aren’t perks, they’re expectations. Companies willing to meet these demands will not only attract the best talent but also build more engaged, loyal, and future-ready teams.
The question for every employer now is simple: are you keeping pace with what today’s candidates actually need?
Find out how V7 Recruitment can help you avoid a bad hire at www.v7recruitment.com.
