Do Changing Conditions Give Employers a Hiring Advantage?

In November, the quit rate for US worker fell to a 4.5-year low, and March 2025 rates are within 0.2% of the same rate. Wage growth has also slowed, while office mandates have increased. HR sentiment mirrors these trends, as 65% of HR leaders feel the balance of power is shifting from the worker to the employer.

Even as the power dynamic shifts, the principles of talent attraction remain constant. High-value workers still have options, and employers must compete for them. Several trends reinforce this:

78% of top AI-skilled performers are seeking different jobs.

AI expertise is in high demand across industries. Companies that do not offer strong career support for these workers may risk losing them to more progressive employers.

Lack of paid-time-off
(PTO) increases turnover
by 35%.

Offering sufficient PTO significantly improves retention regardless of other job factors, indicating that employees will leave if employment conditions are not favorable.

62% of US hiring managers say skill sets don’t match company needs.

Hiring manager sentiment indicates a need for upskilling and reskilling internal employees, especially as external competition intensifies.

Our View

Flexibility is a
talent magnet.

While some employers push for a full return-to-office, others benefit by offering flexibility. This strategy attracts valuable talent faster and at a lower cost.

Upskilling benefits
everyone.

Ongoing development increases worker value and engagement while reducing hiring pressures. It’s a win for both retention and productivity.

Adopt a total
talent approach.

Use a mix of contingent and permanent workers to adapt to changing market needs. A total talent strategy ensures you are less dependent on traditional hiring flows. Our Sevayo® Insights talent data integration platform capably guides a mix of talent to fill client demands at the right time and cost.

Companies need hard-to-find workers with rare skills, and skills-based hiring is becoming a hot topic. Our workforce solutions expert Gary Norris looks at the details that can make or break your skills-based hiring effort.

Learn More

Gary Norris
Client Services Leader