January is a time to reflect on our goals, and the start of 2025 offers an opportunity to set resolutions for the year ahead. For many, this includes the pursuit of a new job. Navigating the job market can be challenging, but fortunately, our expertise is here to guide you every step of the way!
At the end of 2024, the number of job postings fell to pre-pandemic levels, marking the most significant decline in recent years and reflecting a slower recruitment market. This trend is expected to continue into 2025, driven by the current economic climate, rising living wages, and increased national insurance contributions- all of which are impacting hiring. For candidates, standing out to potential employers has never been more crucial. In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 5 skills that UK employers are actively seeking and prioritising in their next hire, helping you stay ahead in an increasingly competitive job market.
Digital Literacy
With the rise of AI, automation, and digital transformation, digital literacy has become a non-negotiable skill for job seekers in 2025.The demand for tech-savvy candidates is soaring. Understanding digital tools and platforms is a must in nearly every industry, especially with emerging AI technologies. The top jobs in demand for 2025 are forecast to be heavily digital-based jobs including AI data officers, cyber security, and digital marketing. Ensure your CV and cover letter showcases your digital skills and invest time into learning new technologies to stay ahead in the workplace.
Communication Skills
A new report published by LinkedIn discovered 57% of UK employers value communication skills over technical expertise, particularly for leadership and client-facing roles. It’s evident that clear and effective communication is key to success in all workplaces. Whether it’s collaborating with teams or engaging with clients, strong verbal and written communication is a must, especially with more virtual meetings happening. Moreover, proficiency on software such as Microsoft Teams is the new standard.
Problem-Solving Abilities
Employers are actively seeking candidates who can think critically and solve complex problems independently. These skills enable businesses to save time, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. To showcase your problem-solving abilities, provide specific examples in your cover letter and CV, share examples of best practice during interviews, demonstrate critical thinking in any assessments, and support your claims with evidence of success.
Adaptability & Flexibility
As the work landscape is quickly evolving, being adaptable to change and flexible with work arrangements is crucial. The capacity to learn new technologies, systems and tasks is a skill high on the demand list for employers in 2025. With the fast rollout of new technologies in an everchanging and fast-paced world, employees need to be willing to learn and be flexible in working environments.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
According to the World Economic Forum, emotional intelligence is among the top 10 skills in demand for 2025. Employers value candidates who can understand and manage emotions– both their own and others. High EQ promotes better teamwork and leadership, which is why soft skills have become a desired quality as employers seek candidates that can demonstrate excellent self-awareness, relationship management, leadership, and non-verbal communication skills. Need any more convincing on improving your EQ skills? Data demonstrates that high EQ skills account for up to 58% of success in securing various job roles, so improve your EQ skills for increased success.
You can learn more about soft skills here: https://www.bigfishlittlefish.co.uk/unlocking-success-the-influence-of-soft-skills-in-uk-hiring/
With over 20 years’ experience in the recruitment industry, we are here to help secure your dream job, and we offer a free CV review by a trained career advisor who will support you in demonstrating your strengths including the in-demand skills for 2025. You can find industry insights, interview tips, and advice for career progression and more over on our blog. Make 2025 the year for your dream job!