What Professionals Want in 2025: Key Recruitment and Retention Insights for Legal, Finance and Financial Services Sectors
At Eventus Recruitment Group, we believe that successful recruitment starts with understanding what professionals truly value in their working lives.
That is why we are proud to publish our Employment Insights and Work Trends Report 2025, which captures the latest thoughts, trends and career priorities from over 1,000 professionals across the legal, finance and financial services sectors.
This year’s survey reveals how the needs, expectations and motivations of professionals are evolving, and it offers practical guidance to help businesses like yours adapt. Whether you are recruiting for growth or focused on retention, these findings will give you a competitive advantage in a busy marketplace.
Here are some of the key insights from the report.
Hybrid working is now the standard
Hybrid working continues to dominate as the preferred working model. 84% of professionals said their ideal working pattern includes both home and office time, with most favouring more home working than office.
This trend is consistent across legal, finance and financial services. Hybrid working reduces commuting time and costs, and improves work life balance — making it a key driver of job satisfaction.
Firms that offer flexible working patterns are more likely to attract and retain top talent. Those that do not may struggle to stay competitive.
Salary and benefits are top priorities
In today’s economic climate, salary and benefits now matter more than culture when it comes to job satisfaction. This shift highlights the increasing importance of financial stability, especially with ongoing cost of living pressures.
Our survey found:
44% of professionals are unhappy with their current pay
Over 75% would consider moving jobs for better benefits
Salary, holiday allowance and flexible hours are ranked the most valuable benefits
Professionals are telling us clearly: financial wellbeing matters. A regular review of your benefits offering — including both financial and lifestyle perks — is essential to remain attractive as an employer.
Retention is now a strategic priority
While it is encouraging that 38% of respondents see themselves staying at their current company for four or more years, 62% are still actively or passively looking for new roles.
The top reasons why people consider leaving?
Ineffective management
Lack of career progression
Perceived poor salary and benefits
For employers, the message is clear. Retention is not something to take for granted. It requires a proactive strategy focused on communication, career development, and recognising contribution.
Interest in four day working weeks continues to grow
Flexible working is no longer just about location. It is also about time.
83% of professionals believe they would benefit from a four day working week, and 71% say their current role could be adapted to one.
Whether through compressed hours or reduced hours with full pay, shorter working weeks are gaining momentum. The potential benefits include increased productivity, improved wellbeing, and stronger employee loyalty.
This is an emerging area to watch closely — especially for firms looking to innovate their employee offering.
How to apply these insights
These trends may feel familiar, but this year’s data confirms just how deeply they matter to professionals in legal, finance and financial services roles. People want:
Flexibility in how and when they work
Competitive pay and meaningful benefits
Managers who support their development
Clear opportunities to grow within their company
The full Employment Insights and Work Trends Report 2025 contains detailed analysis and practical recommendations to help you attract and retain professionals in a fast moving employment market.
If you are hiring, reviewing your benefits, or simply want to better understand what your people need — this report is essential reading.
Download your copy today to stay ahead of the curve.
To discuss the findings or get tailored advice for your business, contact our expert team at info@eventusrecruitmentgroup.com or call 01524 34400.
