Top employment trends in 2025

The world of work is rapidly changing. Therefore, navigating change at work is more important than ever. For those looking to advance their career, it’s crucial to know what these changes are and how they may impact you.

So, what are the top workplace trends to look out for as we head into 2025?

Rise of hybrid work

There is a strong preference among employees for flexible working arrangements. Many employees will preference companies that offer a mix of on-site and at-home working arrangements.
74% of Australian workers desire flexibility in where they perform their roles, while 83% desire flexibility in the hours they work.

However, some employers are starting to push back against this and ordering their employees into the office five days a week. From January next year, Amazon will require all its staff to be back in the office.

A KPMG survey revealed that 83% of CEOs want their staff back in the office.

Four-day workweek

Some companies are trialing a four-day workweek. Under this model, employees concentrate their working hours across fewer days. The benefits of a four-day workweek can include:

• Increased productivity
• Lower rates of burnout among employees
• Helping attract and retain talent
• Reduced carbon footprint by reducing commuting time

• More time for employees to spend time with their family and pursue interests outside of work.

According to studies, companies that trialed a four-day workweek recognised the benefits with 92% planning to keep these arrangements in place.

Upskilling and Re-skilling

According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, half of the world’s workforce will require re-skilling or upskilling. This reflects global trends where traditional workplace skills are becoming obsolete in favour of new competencies.

Continuous learning is crucial so employees can navigate the rapidly changing workplace.

In addition, many companies are promoting internal mobility programs that encourage employees to move into roles that better fit their evolving skill sets. By doing so, they:

• Help address skills shortages
• Encourage employee retention by providing career advancement opportunities.

Increased focus on human skills

With Artificial Intelligence and machine learning increasingly performing routine tasks, human skills such as empathy and emotional intelligence are increasingly being valued.

Rise of Skill-Based hiring

Increasingly, employers are choosing candidates based on their skills rather than their experience or education. This reflects the fact that for many organisations finding skilled employees is an increasing challenge.

94% of employers believe skills-based assessments can provide a better indication of the value a potential employee will bring than traditional resumes.

Studies show that employees also prefer recruitment processes that are decided on the basis of skills.

Diversity and inclusion

Organisations are increasingly recognising that a diverse working environment can offer a strategic advantage.Companies are increasingly incorporating blind recruitment techniques, allowing them to select the best candidate regardless of their background.

There is also an increasing recognition of the skills and experience that older workers bring to the workplace, with older workers representing the fastest growing section of the workforce.

Sustainability in the workplace

Employees are increasingly seeking to work for companies that prioritise sustainability in the workplace. Studies indicate up to 70% of workers consider a company’s commitment to sustainability when deciding where to work. Workplaces can improve their sustainability by:

• Reducing waste
• Maximising energy efficiency: Companies should try to reduce their energy use whenever possible. Some workplaces incorporate features that adjust heating, cooling and lighting settings based on occupancy.

The workforce is rapidly changing. It’s crucial to keep up with these changes to give yourself the best chance of career success.

Are you looking for a new career? Navigating the world of work isn’t easy. Public Service Resumes can help. We are pleased to offer various services, including public sector resume and cover letter writing.