UK workers are on the move in 2025, and it’s not just about climbing the career ladder…
With cost-of-living challenges, shifting workplace values, and an increased desire for flexible working, jobseekers are shaking up the labour market. Whether it’s chasing higher pay, better perks, or a role they actually care about, people are rethinking what they want from work - and employers definitely need to keep up.
So, if you’re eyeing up a fresh start (or you’re an employer wondering how to keep your best people from jumping ship), let’s break down what’s behind the job hunt and how you can make smarter moves.
Higher pay takes the spotlight
Rising costs and inflation mean many Brits are double-checking receipts - and also, eyeing up new salary brackets.
According to our recent survey*, 35% of jobseekers say higher pay is their top reason for seeking out new roles. And for many, that sentiment is growing as 41% of jobseekers are prioritising salary more this year than last.
After all, that weekly shop isn’t getting cheaper - making salaries that can keep up a priority for many.
How to find the salary you want when jobseeking:
- Use an average salary checker tool to find out the average pay for your role before you start interviewing.
- Always negotiate on salary. If you can back up your skills and experience, it’s worth speaking up.
- Focus on finding roles offering the pay that you deserve - and include paths for future progression and pay rises.
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The growing importance of benefits
It’s not just pay packets catching people’s eye in 2025.
34% of jobseekers want better benefits, and we’re not talking about an office fruit bowl.
People want real-life perks they’ll actually use: private healthcare, more time off, and a working week they can shape around their lives.
What benefits really matter?
- Flexible work options: 36% of the people we surveyed are looking for more flexibility and a better work-life balance.
- Opportunities to learn and grow: Training budgets make any new job more attractive, with 29% of people seeking out a role with more career progression, skills development, and training. In fact, 63% of jobseekers are considering additional training this year - suggesting a strong appetite for upskilling in 2025.
- Job security: In an uncertain economic climate, 27% of UK workers want a job they feel secure in.
- Support for mental health and wellbeing: From access to counselling to wellness budgets, it all adds up.
How to assess benefits before taking a job:
- Look beyond the headline perks – ask what benefits are actually in place and used.
- Ask about flexibility, time off, and mental health support during the interview process.
- Search for employee reviews that mention real experiences, not just surface-level perks.
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Career alignment and purpose
Around 33% of UK workers are job hunting for something more meaningful in 2025 - they want work that fits with their values and ambitions.
Less counting down the hours until Friday; and more fulfilling roles with room to progress.
And, they want to Love Mondays. Obviously.
How to find a purpose-driven role:
- Research the company’s mission and values – do they align with what matters to you?
- Look for roles that offer learning and progression – it’s a sign they’re invested in people’s futures. And if you’re one of the 58% of jobseekers who say they want to learn new skills in 2025 - roles that offer growth should be on your checklist.
- Use interviews to ask about long-term goals and how employees are supported to reach them.
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The flexibility factor
Flexibility isn’t just a workplace trend anymore - it's non-negotiable. With 20% of workers actively seeking remote-first or hybrid roles, it’s clear that the way we work has fundamentally shifted.
Why is flexibility such a game-changer? It slashes travel time and costs (goodbye, packed commuter trains), lets people work when and where they’re most productive, and opens up opportunities to a much wider talent pool.
How to find flexible roles that suit your lifestyle:
- Use filters like 'remote', 'hybrid' or 'flexible' when job hunting.
- Ask about the company’s typical working week and how flexible hours are handled.
- Read job ads carefully – some say 'hybrid' but expect you in the office most days.
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How to: Find working from home jobs
Why some workers stay put
While plenty of people are on the hunt for something new in 2025, 60% of workers say they’re happy with their current employer.
Why? 37% called job security their top reason to stay put in 2025.
Because sometimes, a reliable paycheck, a solid work-life balance, and a workplace that doesn’t make you dread Mondays can often beat the uncertainty of starting fresh.
How to tell if it’s time to stay or move on:
- Ask yourself: is this job meeting my needs (financial, personal, and professional)?
- If you feel supported, respected and fairly paid, staying might be the smarter move.
- Only make a change if the new opportunity clearly offers something better – not just something different.
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Top reasons employees leave (and red flags to look out for)
Sometimes, money and perks can’t fix the basics.
The biggest reasons people quit? A toxic culture (33%) and bad managers (25%). Culture misalignment is also a major factor - with 34% saying they'd leave a role that doesn’t align with their values.
In short, no amount of free pizza can make up for daily stress or a boss who doesn’t listen. And if the vibes feel off from the start, they probably are.
How to spot a toxic workplace:
- Pay attention to how you’re treated during interviews – are they respectful of your time and questions?
- Look up reviews and ratings from people who’ve worked there – especially around culture and management.
- If you see high turnover, vague job descriptions, or pressure to accept quickly, take a step back.
- Already in a role like this? It might be time to start looking elsewhere…
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How to choose your next role
Changing jobs is no small thing, so it makes sense to be picky. Make your next move count by checking off what matters to you.
A jobseeker’s checklist:
- Is the salary competitive? Find real numbers, not vague 'market rate' promises.
- What benefits come with the package? Flexible hours and extra leave can be worth their weight in gold.
- Are there opportunities for growth? Ask about learning budgets or promotions.
- What does work-life balance actually look like? If you need remote or hybrid options, ask about it - don’t just hope.
Don’t forget your detective work:
- Browse company reviews.
- Check out your prospective manager’s profile online - are they a people-first leader?
- Ask as many questions as you need to during interviews. Remember, they want you as much as you need the job.
Your aim? Don’t just settle for a job - find the right one.
"The key to professional happiness isn’t winning the international acclaim of Andy Summers or the riches of Richard Branson. It’s finding the right job for you. [...]. First, there is no point in misrepresentation [and] being less than honest might move you closer to some shiny position, but unless that job truly matches your needs and abilities, it’s not really a ‘dream gig’. The result [...] will be moving further from happiness. Second, there is no need to lie. You are enough. [...] Happiness at work isn’t for someone else [...] Everyone can find a fulfilling job."
– James Reed - Why You: 101 Interview Questions You’ll Never Fear Again
Final thoughts
When it comes to the job market in 2025 - money definitely talks, but it’s not the only thing people are listening to.
They crave security, perks, meaning, and a life outside of work (radical, we know). To make sure you’re finding a job you’ll love, be clear on what you want (and what you offer) and do your research before you apply. Hidden salaries and pizza parties disguised as ‘company culture’ are probably not a green flag.
Most importantly? Know your worth and don’t hesitate to ask for it. After all, the right job isn’t just about paying the bills.
Ready for a change? View all available jobs now, or get qualified for a job you’ll love with a course.
*Source: Survey commissioned by Reed.co.uk consisting of 2,000 UK adults between 11th March – 18th March 2025.
