Think a competitive salary is enough to secure great talent in 2025?

Not anymore.

At Recruit Personnel, we speak daily with jobseekers across the Hunter Valley — from boilermakers and site supervisors to receptionists and accounts staff. And across all industries, one thing is clear:

Today’s workforce is looking for more than just a paycheck.

If you want to attract and retain the right people in a competitive hiring market, here are the top five things jobseekers really want in 2025 — and how you can deliver.

1. Flexibility

Even in traditionally rigid sectors like construction, logistics, and industrial trades, flexibility is fast becoming a priority.

Candidates are asking:

• “What are the hours?”
• “Is there an RDO system?”
• “Can I start early and finish early?”

This shift isn’t just about remote work — it’s about real-life balance.

What You Can Do:
Be upfront about hours, rosters, and conditions. Where possible, allow for flexible start/finish times, or consider rotating shifts that offer some personal time back.

2. Career Progression

Today’s jobseekers want more than a job — they want a career path.

Even entry-level candidates are asking, “What happens after this role?”

What You Can Do:
Show a clear pathway forward. Whether it’s:

• On-the-job training
• Licensing support
• Mentorship from senior staff
  … let candidates know they can grow with you.

3. Positive Team Culture & Respect

Forget “just get the job done” — culture counts.

Jobseekers are quick to avoid toxic or disorganised worksites. Respectful leadership, team support, and solid communication are dealmakers.

What You Can Do:
Promote your team culture in your job ads and interviews. If your team gets along, works safely, or supports each other — talk about it. It matters.

4. Clear Communication

One of the top frustrations we hear from jobseekers?

“They never got back to me.”

Poor communication from employers — especially during the hiring process — reflects poorly on the business and turns top talent away.

What You Can Do:

• Respond quickly
• Be clear about timelines and expectations
• Keep candidates in the loop

Even if someone’s not successful, a respectful response leaves the door open for future hires.

5. Job Security & Stability

In 2025, certainty is currency. With economic pressures still affecting many families, candidates are choosing roles that offer long-term potential and steady hours.

What You Can Do:
If your position offers ongoing work, strong project pipelines, or repeat contracts — make it clear. Jobseekers want to know they’ll still be working in 3, 6, or 12 months.

Want to Attract the Right People?

It’s not always about offering more money — it’s about offering what matters to candidates right now.

If you’re struggling to attract or retain staff, we can help. Recruit Personnel works with a wide network of pre-screened, job-ready candidates across:

• Trades
• Construction
• Admin
• Civil
• Logistics and more

Let us help you tailor your job offer to stand out in today’s market.

👉 Contact us today to discuss your hiring needs
📞 Call (02) 4934 9900

Recruit Personnel – Your Local Recruitment Partner
Supporting employers across Maitland, Newcastle & the Hunter Valley