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Michael Page 2026Talent Trends 2026
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Cut through the hype to see what’s really shaping hiring
Cut through the hype to see what’s really shaping hiring
Professionals want fair pay, real flexibility and a workplace where they feel they belong.
Professionals also want a clear view of what’s ahead, and many already have a plan for how they’ll respond to changing expectations.
How likely would workers be to look for a new job if their current employer asked them to come into the office more often?
Work–life balance is shifting, and it’s encouraging many workers to stay.
Are you willing to reject a promotion if you believe it will have a negative effect on your well-being?
What’s Really Influencing Job Mobility Right Now
With the job market cooling, many professionals are choosing to negotiate pay instead of changing roles - and this doesn’t mean they’re disengaged.
Workers are watching pay trends, hybrid expectations and levels of trust closely, and many are waiting for the right moment to make a move. Work–life balance now plays a major role in whether they even consider it.
Many professionals remain open to new opportunities, and shifts in flexibility, pay or leadership transparency can influence when they decide to move. As more employers focus on skills rather than formal credentials, people also feel more confident applying when the role feels like a fair match.
With flexible and hybrid working now common for many employees, even those less active in their job search can step forward when the right opportunity appears. AI is also making it easier to test the market quietly - a trend that will continue shaping mobility.
Current workplace arrangement
11%
Remote full-time33%
In office full-time45%
Flexible / hybrid
Many workers now see hybrid working as a long-term expectation, while company approaches continue to shift. Some organisations are asking people back into the office more often, while others are offering greater flexibility. Trust sits at the heart of this. Professionals want clear, honest communication about future workplace plans - and without it, many will start exploring other options.
How have working arrangements changed over the past year?
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