Niche Recruitment

Posted by Niche Recruitment
3rd January 2025

Recruitment Trends for 2025: What’s Shaping the Future of Hiring?

Recruitment trends over the past couple years have been dominated by some big topics. AI, hybrid working and sustainability to name a few. 2025 is set to bring some transformative changes and with pressure to stay ahead of the competition, organisations need to shift their priorities when it comes to hiring.

Attracting and retaining top talent remains top of the list, but here’s a closer look at the recruitment trends that we feel are shaping the future of hiring.

SKILLS TAKE PRIORITY OVER DEGREES

Employers are embracing transferrable skills and the ability to demonstrate real-world experience. Certifications, online courses and portfolios often outweigh the need for a degree, particularly when paired with industry experience. Of course, there are exceptions to this, though this is a trend our team are noticing particularly in the digital, marketing and creative industry.

REMOTE & HYBRID WORK MODELS DOMINATE

Remote and hybrid work setups are no longer a post-pandemic trend—they’re the new norm. In 2025, flexibility in work arrangements is a key factor in attracting candidates. It’s estimated that 28% of the UK working population currently work on a hybrid basis. It’s also reported that 71% of full-time office workers and hybrid workers would decline a new job that required a long commute.

GROWING IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYER BRANDING

In a competitive job market, a strong employer brand is essential. Prospective employees want to work for organisations that align with their values and offer a positive, inclusive culture. An authentic approach is essential when it comes to employer branding, particularly amongst Gen Z who value transparency as highly as career progression and salary.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION (DEI) TAKE CENTRE STAGE

Diversity, equity, and inclusion remain a top priority for organisations in 2025. Recruitment strategies are evolving to eliminate bias, with practices like blind hiring, utilising video technology and diverse candidate pipelines becoming standard. Companies are also tracking DEI metrics and are continually developing inclusive environments to create workplaces that celebrate diversity and drive innovation.

GEN ZS INFLUENCE ON RECRUITMENT

With Gen Z making up 27% of the world’s workforce, recruitment strategies are evolving to meet their expectations. According to Deloitte, more than half of Gen Z research a company’s environmental impact before accepting a job offer. Seeking purpose, opportunities for growth, and work-life balance, employers are adapting by offering clear career progression paths, meaningful work, and delivering on genuine company values. (You can find out lots more info on how Gen Z are shaping recruitment by heading to our blog here).

SUSTAINABILITY AS A KEY RECRUITMENT FACTOR

Sustainability is now a major consideration for job seekers. Employees are drawn to companies that prioritize environmental responsibility and corporate social responsibility. By highlighting green initiatives and ethical practices, organisations can attract eco-conscious talent.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON RECRUITMENT TRENDS IN 2025

Recruitment trends in 2025 emphasise innovation, inclusivity, and adaptability. Companies that embrace these shifts will be best positioned to attract and retain top talent.

Need support creating a strong employer brand, recruitment strategy or attraction and retention plan?

Kickstart 2025 with a Niche discovery call!