How to Attract Top Talent Beyond Salary in 2025

Teigan Keen • 1 September 2025

Finding the right talent isn't just about offering a bigger salary anymore. Leading candidates are looking at the whole package, from flexibility and culture to growth opportunities and wellbeing. If your business isn't thinking beyond the pay, you could be missing out on the talent you really want. 


The good news? Attracting the right people doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding what candidates truly value and highlighting these in your recruitment strategy, you can make your business stand out. 

The Shift In Candidate Expectations

Candidates today aren’t just looking for a payslip, they’re looking for a workplace that suits their lifestyle, values and long-term goals. The younger generation in particular are driving this shift, prioritising things like flexibility, personal development and a sense of purpose. 


The majority of candidates are willing to sacrifice a slightly higher salary for roles that offer more meaningful benefits. For some, that could be finishing early on  a Friday, while for others, it's the chance to work from home a few days a week, saving both time and money on commuting. These small perks can make a huge difference to how attractive a role feels. Mix in opportunities for career progression, being a part of a diverse and inclusive culture, access to wellbeing support and working for a business that genuinely cares about issues like sustainability and suddenly salary isn’t the only deciding factor. 


Career development is equally important. Ambitious candidates want to know that the role you're offering won't just be a job, but a stepping stone to something bigger. Training programmes, apprenticeships, mentorship and clear promotion opportunities all show that you're willing to invest in your staff. 


Culture is where business thrive or struggle. People want to work in an environment where they feel included, supported and recognised. Simple things like celebrating successes, encouraging collaboration and being transparent about company goals can go a long way in building a culture candidates want to be part of. 


Finally, values matter. Many job seekers, especially younger generations, want to work for companies that align with their own beliefs. Whether your business advocates sustainability, community involvement, or strong ethical practices, being open about these commitments can be the deciding factor for candidates choosing between you and another employer.

Small Shifts

The best part is, you don't need to overhaul everything, even small changes can have a big impact. Start by making sure that your job goes beyond pay and responsibilities. Shout about your flexibility, your culture and the way you support employee wellbeing. Use Linkedin and your careers page to give people a real feel for what it is like to work with you, share stories from your team and celebrate their wins. 


Consistency is key too. If you say you offer development opportunities, back it up with real examples of people who have grown within the business. If sustainability matters to you, show the difference between a company that talks the talk and one that actually lives it. 


Like one of our consultants at Regional Recruitment said "We're finding candidates often ask ask about flexibility and career growth before salary, it is becoming a deal breaker when it comes to accepting a role”

The Bottom Line

Attracting Top Talent in 2025 isn’t just about who’s paying the most, It's about who's offering the full package. Flexibility, growth opportunities, a supportive culture and values that actually  mean something, are what sets businesses apart. 


The companies that get this right won’t just fill roles  they’ll bring in people who stick around and truly fit their team.

If you’re ready to make that happen, our team at Regional Recruitment is here to help. Let’s build a recruitment strategy that works for today, tomorrow, and beyond.


Lady, blue, job, laptop

How To Stay Motivated in Your Job Search During Summer

by Teigan Keen • 28 July 2025
The summer months often feel slower. The sun is out, holidays are in full swing, and life takes on a more relaxed pace. But while others take a break, you can use this time to get ahead in your job search. Many companies still hire in July and August, and staying active during this period can give you a serious advantage. Here are 5 simple and effective ways to stay motivated and make progress in your job hunt this summer.
Recruiter interviewing a job candidate in a professional setting, illustrating effective hiring

5 Ways To Speed Up Your Hiring Process Without Sacrificing Quality

by Teigan Keen • 23 June 2025
Explore 5 effective ways to speed up your hiring process without compromising on candidate quality. Streamline recruitment and secure top talent faster

Why Cultural Diversity Matters in the Workplace

by Teigan Keen • 28 May 2025
In today’s globalised world, cultural diversity in the workplace is more than just a positive attribute, it’s a powerful advantage. Embracing a range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives fosters innovation, drives business growth and builds a stronger, more inclusive team. At Regional Recruitment, we’ve seen firsthand how cultural diversity strengthens not only our team but the service we provide to our clients and candidates

Why Company Culture Is Important Now More Than Ever In 2025

by Teigan Keen • 17 April 2025
In today’s highly competitive job market, company culture is non-negotiable. Candidates are looking for more than just a job title or salary. They want to feel a sense of purpose, inclusion and belonging at work.

Supporting Employees During Ramadan: A Guide For Employers

by Teigan Keen • 10 March 2025
Ramadan is a really special time for millions of people around the world, bringing a month of fasting, prayer and reflection. But let’s be real, balancing work while fasting can be a challenge, and that’s where employers can make a huge difference. By understanding what Ramadan involves and making a few thoughtful adjustments, workplaces can become more inclusive and supportive.

The Future of Apprenticeships: Why They’re More Important Than Ever

by Teigan Keen • 13 February 2025
Apprenticeships are becoming a valuable alternative to traditional education. They offer hands on experience that builds real – world skills. As university cost rise and the job market shifts, more people are turning to apprenticeships, not only to kickstart their careers but also to make rewarding career changes. For businesses, apprenticeships help develop skilled talent from the ground up, driving innovation and ensuring future growth. In this blog, we’ll explore why apprenticeships are more important than ever and how they benefit both individuals and companies.

Why Mentorship Matters in Recruitment

by Teigan Keen • 14 January 2025
In the fast-paced and competitive world of recruitment, where every connection counts and time is of the essence, mentorship often serves as the silent backbone behind successful professionals and thriving teams. Whether you’re an experienced recruiter or just starting your career, having a mentor can be transformative. Here’s why mentorship is a foundation of growth in the recruitment industry.

Recruitment Trends to Watch in 2025

by Teigan Keen • 5 November 2024
As we move into 2025, new trends are set to reshape how we live, work, and connect. From advancements in technology and sustainable solutions to shifts in lifestyle and work culture, each industry is evolving in unique ways. Here are the predictions for 2025.

Strategies for Removing Barriers in the Hiring Process

by Georgia Gilbert • 2 October 2024
Unconscious bias in the recruitment process can be a significant challenge for companies aiming to foster diverse and inclusive team environments. Even with the best intentions, biases can sometimes subtly influence hiring decisions, from how job descriptions are written to how interviews are conducted. Learn how to identify, mitigate, and remove bias from every stage of the hiring process, in this blog.

What Does a Labour Government Mean for Employment Law?

by Georgia Gilbert • 11 September 2024
Following the General Election this July, we have seen the new Labour government take office, bringing with it a renewed commitment to workers’ rights and employment law. The government is expected to prioritise fair wages, enhanced working conditions, and job security. Over the next few months we can expect to see significant legislative changes aimed at strengthening protections for employees and promoting a fairer employment landscape for all.  For businesses, it’s crucial to stay up to date with changes to maintain compliance and adjust strategies accordingly, ensuring a smooth transition for continued success. For employees, keeping informed will help you know your rights, take advantage of new protections and help you confidently navigate your career in a changing landscape.