At Fetch Recruitment, we know that hiring today is about more than just filling roles. It’s about understanding what job seekers really want — from how they search for roles to what makes them apply.

We recently ran a series of LinkedIn polls, with over 1,000 professionals sharing their thoughts on flexibility, job ads, platforms and more. With the Victorian Government also considering new laws that would give employees the right to work from home two days a week, it’s clear that expectations are shifting fast.

Here’s what the data tells us — and how businesses can respond.

Hybrid Work Is the New Normal

Preferred work environment:
• 67% hybrid
• 17% remote
• 14% in-office
• 2% co-working
Flexibility is no longer a perk. It’s a must. Even in hands-on industries like construction or logistics, employers will need to find new ways to build it in.

CVs Aren’t Up-to-Date

How often people update their CV:
• 60% only when job hunting
• 23% every 3–6 months
• 9% monthly
• 8% annually
Most people aren’t actively ready to apply, which means outreach and talent pooling are more important than ever — especially for fast-fill or mobilised roles.

Work-Life Balance and Salary Are Equally Important

Top priorities when switching jobs:
• 35% work-life balance
• 34% salary and benefits
• 17% career progression
• 14% team and culture
Money still matters — but not more than lifestyle. Candidates are looking for roles that align with their values.

LinkedIn Leads, But Seek Still Matters

Where people would look first for a job:
• 56% LinkedIn
• 38% Seek
• 2% Indeed
• 4% Other
Since this data came from LinkedIn, its popularity is no surprise. But Seek remains essential, especially for contract and labour hire roles. Smart hiring strategies use both.

People Trust People

Who candidates trust most:
• 53% current or former employees
• 38% their own judgement
• 6% recruiters
• 2% online reviews
Your employer brand isn’t just what you say — it’s what your team says. Real voices matter.

Salary Transparency Is Key

Why people don’t apply:
• 43% unclear salary or benefits
• 34% didn’t feel like a fit
• 13% bad reputation
• 9% job ad was too generic
Leaving out pay details is costing you applicants. Transparency isn’t optional anymore.

Candidates Do Their Research

How much they research before applying:
• 34% thorough research
• 33% quick browse
• 24% depends
• 9% no research
If your online presence doesn’t reflect your culture or values, you’re losing talent before they even hit apply.

What Employers Can Do Now To Stay Competitive

 • Offer genuine flexibility
• Be upfront about salary and expectations
• Build a strong brand across LinkedIn and Seek
• Encourage employee advocacy
• Engage with talent early, not just when roles go live

Ready to Hire Smarter in FY25/26?

The market is shifting fast. Candidates expect flexibility, transparency, and authenticity from employers. They’re researching you before you even speak, and making decisions based on more than just a job title.

That’s where Fetch Recruitment comes in.

We partner with businesses who are ready to meet these expectations — and lead the way. Whether you're hiring permanent staff, scaling up a project, or need short-term support through labour hire or contract solutions, our specialist teams are here to help.

We understand the industries we recruit in — from construction and resources to corporate services — and we know how to engage the people behind the skills.

If you're looking to attract candidates who align with your culture, values and future direction, Fetch Recruitment can help you:
• Refine your job ads to increase the quality of applications
• Build employer brand presence on platforms like LinkedIn and Seek
• Find passive talent before they hit the job market
• Improve speed to hire through expert, tailored recruitment

Let’s shape your workforce for what’s next, not just what’s now.

Reach out to Fetch Recruitment and let’s build the team that builds your future.