Top 5 Job Seeker Priorities in 2025

We’re halfway through 2025, and the hiring landscape continues to shift. In just six months, we've seen job seekers become more discerning, more strategic, and more selective in their job searches. To better understand these evolving expectations, we surveyed over 1,000 professionals across the country to uncover what candidates are really looking for right now. The results? Themes of flexibility, stability, and transparency are priorities in their job search. For hiring managers, understanding these priorities is critical to attracting and retaining top talent in an increasingly competitive market.

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‍For more in-depth job market analysis, download our free Market Trend Report. For the survey results only, download the Job Seeker Experience Survey Results.

Here’s what job seekers are prioritizing in 2025 and how you can align your recruitment strategy accordingly:

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1. Compensation Must Reflect Market Realities

While salary has always played a role in job decisions, it’s become more than just a number. In today’s competitive job market, it’s a reflection of how candidates feel valued. This year, earning more money was the #1 career goal by 42% of candidates. When job seekers were asked about their biggest job-hunting challenge, low salary offers ranked the highest. Today’s job seekers are entering the process with a sharper understanding of their market worth, and when offers fall short, they don’t hesitate to walk away — 63% of candidates said they would back out of a job offer after accepting it if they received a better offer elsewhere. For hiring managers, leading with transparency and aligning salary bands to match market rates is the baseline for attracting quality candidates.

2. Job Stability is Driving Decision-Making

In a market that continues to feel uncertain, job stability has emerged as a major motivator. Nearly one-third of job seekers reported being laid off in the past year — not because of performance, but due to larger economic shifts. On top of that, 41% are now considering a second stream of income to support their financial security. This data paints a clear picture that candidates are prioritizing roles that offer long-term viability and predictability. For employers, this means communicating your stability, growth plans, and support structures clearly. Especially during uncertain times, when it comes down to accepting an offer, candidates will often choose the role that feels most secure.

3. Flexibility Remains a Priority

84% of candidates prefer a hybrid schedule, and only 47% are open to fully in-office roles — indicating that flexibility is no longer a perk but an expectation for many candidates. Candidates are more willing to make big commitments for flexibility with 67% of professionals saying they would relocate for the right job. Finding the right fit and having that flexibility is proving to be more important than the location itself. But flexibility isn’t just about logistics. It signals trust, autonomy, and adaptability — things candidates increasingly value in an employer. Hiring managers who build flexibility into their culture and communicate clearly will gain a crucial competitive edge.

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4. Candidates Seek a Human-Centered Hiring Process

As companies incorporate more AI into hiring, candidates are feeling the impact. 62% have used AI to write resumes or cover letters, but many are skeptical about how these tools are used on the employer's side. Over a fourth of job seekers say AI is actively hurting their job search specifically when it leads to ghosting, lack of feedback, or being auto rejected by algorithms.

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At the same time, 94% of respondents prefer 1-on-1 interviews with a hiring manager, and nearly two-thirds believe more than four rounds of interviews is excessive. What this tells us: candidates are craving real human interaction. Employers must strike a balance between efficiency and connection — streamlining the hiring process while maintaining transparency, communication, and authenticity at every step.

5. Growth Looks Different Now

While career growth remains a strong priority, it’s showing up in new ways. Only 4% of respondents are focused on moving within their current company, indicating a widespread openness to external opportunities. For many, growth doesn’t just mean climbing a ladder — it means pivoting into a new industry, gaining leadership experience, or finding work that feels meaningful.

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In fact, nearly half of all job seekers say they now value meaningful work more since COVID, while traditional drivers like title and prestige have significantly declined. Companies that showcase development opportunities — whether that’s mentorship, upskilling, or lateral movement — stand out to ambitious candidates who are ready to evolve.

The Job Seeker Experience

These insights are just a preview of what today’s job seekers are looking for in their search. Career Group Companies’s Job Seeker Survey highlights key workforce trends, from job search challenges and salary expectations to evolving workplace preferences. With many candidates facing lengthy job searches and prioritizing stability, flexibility, and career growth, companies must refine their hiring strategies to attract and retain top talent.

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Whether you're looking to refine your employer brand, adjust your compensation strategy, or improve the candidate experience — this data is your window into the job seeker experience. Download the full Job Seeker Survey Results for the complete survey results.

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Looking to Make Your Next Great Hire? At Career Group Companies, we specialize in connecting top talent with leading companies across administrative, creative, fashion, events, and executive roles. Get in touch today to find the right candidates and stay competitive.