Your 2025 tech talent predictions!
As we begin the journey into 2025, the future of tech talent is taking shape with some clear trends and challenges on the horizon.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s driving the talent market, based on industry insights and predictions.
The biggest challenges for hiring in 2025 | Businesses are preparing to navigate a highly competitive market for top talent. Challenges like adapting to AI and automation in recruitment, retaining and upskilling current employees, and meeting candidate expectations around flexibility and salary are top of mind.
Emerging trends to watch | The way we hire is evolving. AI-driven hiring is becoming a game-changer, enabling predictive analytics to identify the best candidates faster. Additionally, crypto payments for salaries and bonuses are starting to gain traction. Flexible working remains a key request, with 94% of candidates prioritising roles that support hybrid or remote options.
What candidates want | In 2025, candidates are placing a greater emphasis on work-life balance, purpose-driven roles, and company values. Organisations that align with these expectations will have a competitive edge in attracting top talent.
The most in-demand roles | Roles in AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing, and software engineering are set to dominate. These specialisms reflect the increasing demand for advanced technical expertise to drive innovation and digital transformation.
The future of tech talent is becoming increasingly clear, with both opportunities and challenges shaping the recruitment landscape. Based on industry insights and survey data, here’s what’s driving the market.
Businesses are bracing for a competitive hiring environment, where adapting to AI and automation, retaining top talent, and upskilling employees are key priorities. The challenge is compounded by growing candidate expectations around flexibility and salaries. “The data shows that flexibility is no longer a preference but a baseline expectation, with 94% of candidates prioritising hybrid or remote roles and employers that fail to meet these expectations risk missing out on the best talent.” - Bill Brewer, Talent Strategy Director at the rec hub.
Emerging trends like AI-driven hiring are reshaping how businesses find and engage with talent. Predictive analytics are enabling faster and more accurate candidate matching, while innovations such as crypto payments for salaries are beginning to make waves. Our Director of New Partnerships, Rex Rusling says “AI is becoming the backbone of smarter, more efficient recruitment strategies. it’s helping us connect with candidates who are not only skilled but aligned with the unique demands of each role.”
Candidates are also placing greater emphasis on work-life balance, purpose-driven roles, and values alignment. “With 76% of candidates stating they prefer organisations that align with their personal values, companies need to ensure their employer brand reflects what matters most to today’s workforce,” - Ben Leeson, Director of Brand & Experience
Roles in AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing, and software engineering remain the most in demand, reflecting the need for advanced technical expertise to drive innovation and digital transformation. However, filling these roles is not without challenges.
2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for recruitment. By leveraging AI, embracing flexibility, and aligning with candidate values, organisations can position themselves for success in an increasingly dynamic talent market.
