The UK Hiring Landscape in 2025: What’s Really Going On?
The UK employment market is in a different place this year. According to recent figures from the Office for National Statistics, job vacancies fell by 26,000 between January and March—making it the 33rd consecutive month of decline. But fewer openings don’t automatically mean smoother recruitment. If anything, it’s become harder to hire the right people.
The dynamic has shifted. Employers are reevaluating not just how they hire, but who they’re trying to attract and why someone would choose them. It’s not necessarily bad news—just new territory. And with the right approach, that’s an opportunity.
Where things stand right now
Let’s clear up a misconception: fewer job postings don’t mean fewer hires. It means more thoughtful decision-making—and more competition for talent that ticks all the boxes.
We’re hearing from businesses getting higher volumes of applications, yet still struggling to find people with the right mix of skills, experience, and mindset.
Some sectors are especially tight—health and social care, logistics, and customer service among them. These roles often come with specialist requirements or less flexible schedules. The talent exists, but tapping into it requires a more strategic, candidate-first approach.
More businesses are switching gears—training internally, opening up requirements without compromising standards, and reshaping roles to appeal to a broader, more diverse pool of people.
What’s influencing hiring in 2025?
Gen Z is setting the tone
The first wave of Gen Z professionals are well into their careers. They’re not just joining teams—they’re shaping workplace expectations. Career growth, mental wellbeing, flexibility, and meaningful work are priorities.
Businesses that can show how they support those values will attract and retain stronger teams. Those that can’t? Risk losing out.
Hybrid work still rules the day
Back-to-office mandates dominated headlines in 2024, but many employers are now taking a step back. Employees still value flexibility—and the hybrid model, done well, remains the preferred option.
The key? Clarity and consistency. People don’t expect total freedom, but they do want to understand the rules, the reasons, and the balance between business needs and personal flexibility.
AI is here—but people make the difference
AI is now a standard tool in hiring. It speeds up screening and reduces admin. But it can’t replace human connection.
Candidates want to feel heard, respected, and considered—especially in competitive markets. If AI is part of your hiring process, just be clear about how it’s used. Keep people involved where it counts.
What’s working in recruitment right now?
Build a strong employer brand
Your brand is more than your logo—it’s your reputation. Today’s candidates are checking Glassdoor reviews, social media feeds, and company values before they even think about applying.
Be authentic. Showcase your culture, your people, and what you offer. A consistent, clear brand builds trust—and trust attracts talent.
Promote real growth opportunities
One of the top reasons people change jobs? Lack of development. Candidates want to see a path forward. If they don’t, they’ll keep looking.
Career progression should be visible from the first job ad through to the interview process and onboarding. It doesn’t need to promise fast promotion—but it should show a plan.
Get specific about flexibility
Flexibility means different things to different people. For some it’s hybrid work. For others it’s flexible hours around family or study.
Whatever your offer looks like—spell it out. The clearer you are, the more likely you’ll connect with candidates who align with your way of working.
What smart employers are doing differently
In today’s market, it’s not just about hiring—it’s about retaining and developing the people you bring in.
The most forward-thinking employers are:
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Involving hiring managers early to align expectations
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Running focused, efficient interview processes
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Offering realistic job previews to reduce first-week surprises
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Using onboarding as a tool to build connection, not just compliance
Retention isn’t about locking people in—it’s about giving them a reason to stay.
Lastly
2025 isn’t an easy year to hire—but it is a great year to improve how you hire. The businesses succeeding right now aren’t overcomplicating things. They’re getting the basics right:
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Understanding what today’s candidates value
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Communicating openly and honestly
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Building teams around potential—not just the perfect CV
There’s no magic formula. Just consistent, candidate-centred recruitment that reflects who you are and where you’re going.
Kingsgate Recruitment specialises in the recruitment of talented and multi skilled candidates for a range of businesses. We are committed to helping you find the best talent for your team. With a wealth of experience across a diverse range of industries, our expert team can support you in every step of the recruitment process, from sourcing top candidates to helping you make informed hiring decisions. Our team are also on offer for help and support on how to land that perfect role. Provide advice and career guidance from creating the perfect CV to securing your ideal job.
So, if you’re a candidate looking for a new role or a business looking to hire permanent staff members or need to recruit flexibly to meet demand, give us a call to discuss your plans for the future. We have seen a huge increase in the number of roles, talented candidates and fantastic graduates contacting us to secure their next role. Our team are hand to give expert advice and can look at sourcing top talent, ahead of your competitors, for when you’re ready to hire.
You can contact us via our website, drop us an email, or give us a call on 020 8549 7212.
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