IT Workforce Insights Report

Candidate availability may be improving overall, but this is unlikely to make every technology role equally easy to fill. A significant proportion of respondents are actively looking for work and sentiment towards the job market remains more pessimistic than optimistic. However, the early data indicates that professionals in areas such as Cyber & Security, Data & Analytics and Software & Engineering may have higher salary expectations when considering a move.

Remuneration remains a powerful attraction tool, with more than four in five respondents ranking salary among the most important elements of a job advertisement. Suitable responsibilities, convenient location and flexible working conditions are also emerging as important considerations. Hybrid work remains the preferred arrangement for most respondents, particularly roles requiring two or three days in the office each week.

The factors that attract talent may not be enough to retain it. Better financial incentives currently lead the emerging retention priorities, followed by meaningful work, work-life balance and clearer career progression. Flexible working conditions and professional development are also highly valued, suggesting employers may need to take a broader and more proactive approach to retention rather than relying on salary reviews or counteroffers.

AI is already a visible part of the job search for many technology professionals, although its impact remains contested. Early responses are more likely to view AI and automation as impairing rather than improving the candidate experience. While relatively few respondents would withdraw solely because AI was involved, their comments point to a continuing expectation for human oversight, transparency and meaningful interaction throughout the hiring process.