Why competing on clarity will give your recruitment strategy the advantage

Understanding today's hiring pressures

For UK employers, workplace dynamics have shifted dramatically. Economic and political pressures persist, and, as a result, the hiring landscape continues to evolve. Businesses and candidates are no longer just adapting to these changes; they are living through them, as new priorities emerge, expectations evolve, and technology reshapes the future.

You adapt your recruitment strategy to meet the demands of the workforce, only to be met with more questions. It feels like you're trying to build a plane while it's already in the air. Candidates want more than just a job; they want a perfect fit. So, how do you cut through the noise and find those superstars?  

We understand the challenges hiring managers and HR teams face. Finding top talent in this climate is complex. Candidates are seeking better pay, flexibility, work-life balance, technological advancements, and cultural fit. Yet, they're also willing to wait for the right opportunity – among those not actively applying, 89% still say they’d still be open to the right opportunity – leading to a workforce in a "wait and see" mode. 

The result to providing clarity? A hiring advantage.  

This is where the Michael Page 2025 Talent Trends report comes in. It's designed to provide you with the data-driven insights and hiring intelligence you need to navigate these complexities. Our research, surveying thousands of professionals, has identified five key questions top candidates are asking:

  1. Can you meet my salary and career expectations?
  2. Is your hybrid work policy likely to change this year?
  3. Do you have clear guidance on using AI?
  4. What’s your approach to inclusivity?
  5. Is your company culture built around trust and transparency?

Now’s your chance to stand out among other employers with the clarity that professionals are looking for. Download the full report to understand their motivations and learn how you can effectively hire top candidates. 

Download the 2025 Talent Trends report | Explore the interactive tool

Key findings and actionable insights for UK employers

These key figures highlight the critical trends shaping the UK job market:

Money talks but balance matters

While 46% say getting a higher salary is their top reason for seeking a new job, 90% of professionals say work-life balance is most important when thinking about work. That's more than a trend; it's non-negotiable. And when it comes to pay, 43% of employers admit they're struggling to match salary expectations. Be upfront about compensation and benefits.  

Transparency builds trust from the get-go, and with candidate priorities still leaning towards work-life balance, your wider workplace benefits and flexible workplace policies may tip the odds in your favour, even if salary doesn’t.  

Your hybrid policy: workers want to know “are you going to flip-flop on working from home?”

59% of professionals are in hybrid roles, rising from 55% in 2024. And if their work arrangement were to change? 47% say they would leave. The solution? If you're considering a shift in policy, communicate clearly and explain the "why." 

GenAI: It’s here to stay and professionals are asking “will you help me figure it out?”

41% of professionals are already using AI, but a worrying 35% are doing so without company guidance. It’s time to provide clear AI policies and training. It's not just about tech. It's about security and compliance.

Inclusion isn't a buzzword; it's essential

True inclusion goes beyond surface-level initiatives. It's about creating a genuine sense of belonging where every individual feels valued and respected. Our data shows that a significant 45% of professionals prioritise finding purpose in their role, highlighting the deep desire for work that aligns with their values and contributes to a meaningful workplace. This isn't just a 'nice to have'; it's a fundamental driver of engagement and retention in today's talent market.

Trust is the ultimate currency

In an era of uncertainty, trust is the bedrock of any successful employer-employee relationship. The fact that nearly half (43%) of employees express a lack of trust in their leadership to balance business needs with their well-being is a stark warning. This trust deficit can lead to disengagement, decreased productivity, and ultimately, higher turnover. Building trust requires consistent transparency and empathetic communication.

Building a workforce based on trust and clarity:

By providing clarity on these key questions, you can attract and retain top talent who are aligned with your company’s values. While it may narrow your candidate pool in the short term, the long-term benefits of a motivated and engaged workforce are invaluable.

Let’s make hiring easier, together.

At Michael Page, we combine data-driven insights with people-first strategies to help you build high-performing teams.  

Let our team of recruitment experts help you hire your next star performer and navigate the talent market in 2025 with industry insights. Request a call back to discuss your hiring needs or learn more about the data behind the trends: 

Download the 2025 Talent Trends Report | Explore the Interactive Tool

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