2025 Findings
Pay, Growth & Workforce Changes
Our guide looks at the latest remuneration and market trends across permanent, interim and contract roles, from entry level to senior executive positions.
The top-line issues covered in this report which are affecting businesses in 2025 are:
Businesses are facing a major struggle to hold onto their best people.
84% of professionals are open to new opportunities, and nearly half are actively searching for a new role.
While pay remains important, employees are increasingly motivated by career progression, better benefits, and workplace flexibility. A strong salary alone isn’t enough—companies need to create clear development pathways, invest in meaningful career growth, and build workplaces that align with employees’ expectations. Without these efforts, retaining top talent will continue to be an uphill battle.
Economic pressures and shifting workforce expectations are driving businesses towards contract talent.
46% of companies expect to increase their use of contractors this year, looking to fill skill gaps and remain agile without the long-term commitments of permanent hires.
Contractors bring expertise, but managing them effectively requires a structured approach—onboarding, integration, and clear performance expectations all play a role. With rising costs making permanent hiring more challenging, businesses are rethinking how to balance their workforce for efficiency and flexibility.
Employee priorities are shifting, with 95% of professionals valuing career growth opportunities more than salary increases.
While pay remains a factor, workers are placing greater importance on upskilling, professional development, and structured career progression. Businesses that fail to offer these opportunities risk losing talent to competitors that do.
This shift highlights the need for companies to rethink their approach—investing in mentorship, training, and clear development pathways is becoming essential for long-term retention and engagement.
the 2025 dna salary guide
perks & progression in a shifting market
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