The shift from a candidate driven market to an employer-led market is upon us

The shift from a candidate driven market to an employer-led market marks a significant change in the recruitment landscape for 2025.

In a candidate driven market, job seekers often had the upper hand, with employers competing for talent and candidates able to choose from multiple opportunities. However, economic factors, such as inflation, increased national insurance contributions, cost-of-living wage adjustments, rising living costs, and the need for greater cost efficiency have tipped the scale, leading to an employer-led market.

The lowering of the National Insurance (NI) contribution threshold of earnings to £5,000 will also increase costs for both employees and employers. Workers will see higher NI deductions from their pay, while businesses will face increased employer NI contributions, raising overall employment costs.

To maintain profitability and ensure long-term sustainability, companies are looking for ways to cut costs, which often results in workforce reductions and more restrictive hiring practices.

The shift from a candidate-led to an employer-led market represents a crucial change that candidates need to fully understand to stay competitive. In the past, job seekers had the upper hand, with numerous job opportunities to choose from and employers striving to attract talent.


In this new environment, employers hold more power in selecting candidates, intensifying competition for job seekers.

This shift has a profound impact on candidates. With businesses focusing heavily on cost management and resource optimisation, employers are seeking highly skilled professionals who can deliver value from day one. As such, professionalism has become essential. Candidates who demonstrate strong work ethics, reliability, and the ability to adapt quickly to evolving workplace demands are more likely to stand out. Employers are now prioritising individuals who not only possess hospitality expertise but also align with the company’s culture and are capable of thriving in a rapidly changing business environment.

For candidates, this means that professionalism encompassing leadership abilities, communication skills, hospitality professionalism, financial and customer service, alongside  problem-solving has become a key differentiator.

In an increasingly competitive market, those who can combine hospitality expertise with a polished, professional attitude are better positioned to secure roles and succeed within the current market.


This new environment means job seekers face heightened competition, and employers are now more selective, focusing on candidates who can quickly add value.

For candidates, this shift highlights the importance of professionalism in all aspects of their career, including their reputation and personal branding. Employers are increasingly looking for individuals who not only have expertise but also demonstrate strong work ethic, adaptability, and cultural fit.

Candidates who excel in areas like hospitality, management, and problem-solving will stand out and improve their chances of securing roles within hospitality management.

Ultimately, the key to success is how candidates can contribute to long-term business objectives and show resilience in navigating the challenges of a shifting, employer-driven job market.