Latest industry and market Insights

As businesses continue to navigate economic uncertainty, temporary and contract hiring has emerged as a flexible and strategic solution in the United Kingdom. With companies needing to adapt quickly to shifting market conditions, this hiring model is proving increasingly relevant. Temporary roles are no longer just short-term fixes; they are playing a significant role in long-term talent strategies. According to Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, this hiring shift is being driven by caution around long-term commitments. "When businesses aren't sure about what the next few months look like, committing to a permanent role does sometimes feel like too much. That's when a temporary contract hire comes in." "Temps can be brought in really quickly, often within a day or even a couple of hours" In today’s landscape, agility is everything. Temp staff help businesses respond rapidly to seasonal demands, cover long-term absences like maternity leave, or support project-based work. Financially, this approach often proves cost-effective—companies only pay for the hours worked, avoiding many of the additional expenses tied to permanent roles. Host Liz Jones, UK Managing Director at people2people, explores both sides of the temp hiring equation. On the business side, it’s about flexibility, fast onboarding, and lower risk. For job seekers, it’s about opportunities to gain skills, expand networks, and even transition to permanent employment. Laing points out that despite the hesitation some candidates feel about temporary roles, the experience gained can be a major career booster. "You get the chance to build new skills, work in a different environment, work for a different team or company and learn new systems as well," she says. "That kind of experience can really make a difference in the long term and make you more marketable for permanent roles." Some temporary roles also offer higher pay due to urgent needs or niche skill requirements. And in many cases, exceptional temporary employees are offered permanent positions when companies want to retain their talent. For recruitment agencies, strong performers are often placed repeatedly across valued client accounts. Flexibility is another key advantage. For those between permanent jobs or seeking work-life balance, temporary roles offer the freedom to work for a few months and then take a break. And with longer placements, many temp workers receive the same benefits as permanent staff, including the possibility of remote work. As Laing summarises, "Versatile, efficient, and often comes with a lot of big opportunities. That's probably the most impressive thing we always see with temp and contract work."  In today’s dynamic market, overlooking temporary and contract roles might mean missing out on valuable career and business opportunities. Whether you’re an employer looking to stay agile or a job seeker navigating a transitional period, this hiring model offers real value and potential.

In today's rapidly evolving UK job market, businesses are re-evaluating how they approach hiring. With economic shifts, digital transformation, and workplace flexibility becoming more prevalent, temporary hiring is emerging not as a short-term fix, but as a strategic tool for long-term growth. On a recent PTP Live episode, host Hannah Slee and guest Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, discussed this very shift. The conversation focused on dismantling outdated myths around temp roles and spotlighting how companies can use them as a powerful workforce strategy. "Temp hires today can be a really big strategic fix" Temporary roles have traditionally been seen as a last resort—a bandaid solution to cover staff absences or urgent vacancies. But as Laing explains, the game has changed. "Because of massive changes around economic uncertainty, new regulations, even AI and digital transformations, the way temporary hires are looked at is really evolving." These roles now often bring in skilled consultants, project leads, and industry experts who opt for temp work due to the flexibility and variety it offers. Businesses are also using temp hiring as a way to test new positions or headcounts without the risk of permanent commitment. In effect, temp staff provide not only capacity but also fresh perspectives and innovation. Slee adds, "Temp talent isn't just a safety net. It's really a competitive advantage." Companies can onboard quickly, scale up efficiently during peak periods, and stay agile in times of change—all without the overheads associated with permanent roles. Moreover, the quality of temp candidates has seen a significant uplift. As Laing notes, "The quality of temp work and the quality of temp hires and jobs has also really changed for the positive." Far from being a fallback, temporary work can drive significant value and often leads to longer-term opportunities. Another rising trend is using temp roles as a pipeline for permanent hires. When a temporary employee proves to be a great fit, many businesses are keen to retain them permanently, turning a short-term solution into a long-term asset. Businesses that continue to view temp hires as a last resort may find themselves missing out on talent, efficiency, and adaptability. The smartest organisations are already integrating flexible hiring into their broader strategy, recognising that these professionals can fill immediate needs while fuelling innovation and growth. As Laing summarises, "If you're still thinking of temp hires as a last resort, then I definitely think you're really missing out on a lot of potential."  In a job market where 72% of professionals are considering a job change, it's clear that flexibility and strategic hiring are more important than ever. Whether you're navigating transformation, covering a gap, or planning for growth, now is the time to rethink the role of temporary staff in your business.

As international travel opens up and more professionals seek overseas opportunities, finding work abroad remains a compelling yet complex challenge. For those eyeing a move to the United Kingdom, preparation is the critical factor that separates a smooth transition from a stressful one. While visa options are fairly accessible for Australians relocating to the UK, securing employment is often the real hurdle. According to Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, the initial excitement of moving abroad is quickly followed by the practical challenge of job hunting. "Doing your research before you arrive makes all the difference," she says, emphasising that preparedness is key to navigating the UK job market effectively. "Make sure you have your status set to the correct country" One of the first and most impactful steps a job seeker can take is updating their LinkedIn profile. Laing stresses that setting your job search status to the correct location—like London rather than your current city—helps recruiters find you. It provides visibility and signals intent. "LinkedIn is a huge advantage and a really big network people need to look into, especially when you're moving to a new job and looking for new work." Work eligibility is another cornerstone of successful job applications. As Laing points out, being able to clearly explain your visa status is essential. Recruiters and employers need immediate clarity on whether a candidate can be legally hired, and uncertainty here can lead to delays or lost opportunities. Connecting with local recruiters before arriving is another strategic move. Beyond job matching, recruiters offer invaluable market insights—like which roles are in demand, realistic salary expectations, and industry trends. "Even if you're not ready to apply just yet, those early conversations can set you up with better expectations and a clearer understanding of the landscape," says Laing. Preparation extends to researching local salaries, which may not match what candidates earn in their home country. Factors like cost of living, supply and demand, and economic shifts all play a role in salary levels. Laing notes, "Just because you earn a certain salary in a previous country, doesn't mean that you're going to earn that same salary where you're going." A personal and professional network is also invaluable. Reaching out to former colleagues, friends, or even LinkedIn connections can lead to opportunities that haven't hit the open market yet. Laing encourages prospective movers to engage with their network early: "Put a post out there, start to chat to people, connect on their posts, and opportunities may come through that way." Host Hannah Slee, Recruitment Manager at people2people, adds that the UK job market is showing cautious optimism. With employment up and vacancy rates stabilising, there's reason for hopeful candidates to be encouraged. While traditional sectors like retail continue to face challenges, areas such as tech, professional services, and immersive technologies are experiencing growth. That said, some challenges remain. Unemployment has slightly increased, and economic inactivity remains high, driven largely by longer-term health issues. These trends continue to shape talent availability and influence hiring strategies across sectors. If you're planning a move to the UK, the key takeaways are clear: start early, make use of digital tools like LinkedIn, be transparent about your work eligibility, and tap into local recruiter expertise. Aligning expectations with local realities and activating your network could make all the difference in your overseas job search. Laing concludes with a reassuring message: "If you're planning to move to the UK and to London, definitely we can help you with your job search or any questions that you may have." For professionals ready to embrace the UK job market, a proactive and informed approach will pave the way to success. 
Employer insights: strategies for better hiring and retention

In today's dynamic work environment, flexibility is paramount. As the needs and expectations of the modern workforce continue to evolve, employers are increasingly adopting adaptable work arrangements to meet diverse needs and enhance productivity. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of adaptable work arrangements and how they address the evolving demands of today's workforce while optimizing for search engine visibility.

In recent years, the rise of remote work has revolutionized the way companies approach recruitment. With advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of virtual communication tools, many organizations are now embracing remote recruitment strategies to attract and hire top talent. In this blog post, we'll explore how companies are adapting to virtual hiring processes and the strategies they're employing to succeed in this new era of recruitment.

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, automation is reshaping industries and transforming the way we work. While automation offers numerous benefits, including increased efficiency and productivity, it also presents challenges and uncertainties for the workforce. Understanding the opportunities and challenges of automation on employment is crucial for individuals and organizations alike as we navigate the future of work.
Job seeker tips: stand out in the competitive job market

In today's dynamic job market, staying ahead requires a keen understanding of the skills that employers are seeking. As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, the demand for certain skills shifts, creating both challenges and opportunities for job seekers. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of staying informed about in-demand skills and how to navigate job market trends for career success.

In the midst of the ever-evolving economic landscape characterized by uncertainty and volatility, individuals contemplating stepping into or rejoining the job market often grapple with the question: "Is this the opportune moment?". As the new year unfolds, while many focus on personal resolutions, it also presents an auspicious time to ignite one's professional aspirations, particularly for those pondering a job transition or entry into the workforce.
Recruitment trends, industry blogs, and career insights

As businesses continue to navigate economic uncertainty, temporary and contract hiring has emerged as a flexible and strategic solution in the United Kingdom. With companies needing to adapt quickly to shifting market conditions, this hiring model is proving increasingly relevant. Temporary roles are no longer just short-term fixes; they are playing a significant role in long-term talent strategies. According to Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, this hiring shift is being driven by caution around long-term commitments. "When businesses aren't sure about what the next few months look like, committing to a permanent role does sometimes feel like too much. That's when a temporary contract hire comes in." "Temps can be brought in really quickly, often within a day or even a couple of hours" In today’s landscape, agility is everything. Temp staff help businesses respond rapidly to seasonal demands, cover long-term absences like maternity leave, or support project-based work. Financially, this approach often proves cost-effective—companies only pay for the hours worked, avoiding many of the additional expenses tied to permanent roles. Host Liz Jones, UK Managing Director at people2people, explores both sides of the temp hiring equation. On the business side, it’s about flexibility, fast onboarding, and lower risk. For job seekers, it’s about opportunities to gain skills, expand networks, and even transition to permanent employment. Laing points out that despite the hesitation some candidates feel about temporary roles, the experience gained can be a major career booster. "You get the chance to build new skills, work in a different environment, work for a different team or company and learn new systems as well," she says. "That kind of experience can really make a difference in the long term and make you more marketable for permanent roles." Some temporary roles also offer higher pay due to urgent needs or niche skill requirements. And in many cases, exceptional temporary employees are offered permanent positions when companies want to retain their talent. For recruitment agencies, strong performers are often placed repeatedly across valued client accounts. Flexibility is another key advantage. For those between permanent jobs or seeking work-life balance, temporary roles offer the freedom to work for a few months and then take a break. And with longer placements, many temp workers receive the same benefits as permanent staff, including the possibility of remote work. As Laing summarises, "Versatile, efficient, and often comes with a lot of big opportunities. That's probably the most impressive thing we always see with temp and contract work."  In today’s dynamic market, overlooking temporary and contract roles might mean missing out on valuable career and business opportunities. Whether you’re an employer looking to stay agile or a job seeker navigating a transitional period, this hiring model offers real value and potential.

In today's rapidly evolving UK job market, businesses are re-evaluating how they approach hiring. With economic shifts, digital transformation, and workplace flexibility becoming more prevalent, temporary hiring is emerging not as a short-term fix, but as a strategic tool for long-term growth. On a recent PTP Live episode, host Hannah Slee and guest Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, discussed this very shift. The conversation focused on dismantling outdated myths around temp roles and spotlighting how companies can use them as a powerful workforce strategy. "Temp hires today can be a really big strategic fix" Temporary roles have traditionally been seen as a last resort—a bandaid solution to cover staff absences or urgent vacancies. But as Laing explains, the game has changed. "Because of massive changes around economic uncertainty, new regulations, even AI and digital transformations, the way temporary hires are looked at is really evolving." These roles now often bring in skilled consultants, project leads, and industry experts who opt for temp work due to the flexibility and variety it offers. Businesses are also using temp hiring as a way to test new positions or headcounts without the risk of permanent commitment. In effect, temp staff provide not only capacity but also fresh perspectives and innovation. Slee adds, "Temp talent isn't just a safety net. It's really a competitive advantage." Companies can onboard quickly, scale up efficiently during peak periods, and stay agile in times of change—all without the overheads associated with permanent roles. Moreover, the quality of temp candidates has seen a significant uplift. As Laing notes, "The quality of temp work and the quality of temp hires and jobs has also really changed for the positive." Far from being a fallback, temporary work can drive significant value and often leads to longer-term opportunities. Another rising trend is using temp roles as a pipeline for permanent hires. When a temporary employee proves to be a great fit, many businesses are keen to retain them permanently, turning a short-term solution into a long-term asset. Businesses that continue to view temp hires as a last resort may find themselves missing out on talent, efficiency, and adaptability. The smartest organisations are already integrating flexible hiring into their broader strategy, recognising that these professionals can fill immediate needs while fuelling innovation and growth. As Laing summarises, "If you're still thinking of temp hires as a last resort, then I definitely think you're really missing out on a lot of potential."  In a job market where 72% of professionals are considering a job change, it's clear that flexibility and strategic hiring are more important than ever. Whether you're navigating transformation, covering a gap, or planning for growth, now is the time to rethink the role of temporary staff in your business.

As international travel opens up and more professionals seek overseas opportunities, finding work abroad remains a compelling yet complex challenge. For those eyeing a move to the United Kingdom, preparation is the critical factor that separates a smooth transition from a stressful one. While visa options are fairly accessible for Australians relocating to the UK, securing employment is often the real hurdle. According to Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, the initial excitement of moving abroad is quickly followed by the practical challenge of job hunting. "Doing your research before you arrive makes all the difference," she says, emphasising that preparedness is key to navigating the UK job market effectively. "Make sure you have your status set to the correct country" One of the first and most impactful steps a job seeker can take is updating their LinkedIn profile. Laing stresses that setting your job search status to the correct location—like London rather than your current city—helps recruiters find you. It provides visibility and signals intent. "LinkedIn is a huge advantage and a really big network people need to look into, especially when you're moving to a new job and looking for new work." Work eligibility is another cornerstone of successful job applications. As Laing points out, being able to clearly explain your visa status is essential. Recruiters and employers need immediate clarity on whether a candidate can be legally hired, and uncertainty here can lead to delays or lost opportunities. Connecting with local recruiters before arriving is another strategic move. Beyond job matching, recruiters offer invaluable market insights—like which roles are in demand, realistic salary expectations, and industry trends. "Even if you're not ready to apply just yet, those early conversations can set you up with better expectations and a clearer understanding of the landscape," says Laing. Preparation extends to researching local salaries, which may not match what candidates earn in their home country. Factors like cost of living, supply and demand, and economic shifts all play a role in salary levels. Laing notes, "Just because you earn a certain salary in a previous country, doesn't mean that you're going to earn that same salary where you're going." A personal and professional network is also invaluable. Reaching out to former colleagues, friends, or even LinkedIn connections can lead to opportunities that haven't hit the open market yet. Laing encourages prospective movers to engage with their network early: "Put a post out there, start to chat to people, connect on their posts, and opportunities may come through that way." Host Hannah Slee, Recruitment Manager at people2people, adds that the UK job market is showing cautious optimism. With employment up and vacancy rates stabilising, there's reason for hopeful candidates to be encouraged. While traditional sectors like retail continue to face challenges, areas such as tech, professional services, and immersive technologies are experiencing growth. That said, some challenges remain. Unemployment has slightly increased, and economic inactivity remains high, driven largely by longer-term health issues. These trends continue to shape talent availability and influence hiring strategies across sectors. If you're planning a move to the UK, the key takeaways are clear: start early, make use of digital tools like LinkedIn, be transparent about your work eligibility, and tap into local recruiter expertise. Aligning expectations with local realities and activating your network could make all the difference in your overseas job search. Laing concludes with a reassuring message: "If you're planning to move to the UK and to London, definitely we can help you with your job search or any questions that you may have." For professionals ready to embrace the UK job market, a proactive and informed approach will pave the way to success. 

As the United Kingdom edges closer to a new financial year, businesses across the region are taking stock of their hiring strategies and workforce plans. A recurring theme is the importance of readiness, especially in a market where timing and preparation can make or break recruitment outcomes. According to recent insights, many companies remain uncertain about headcount budgets and future role requirements. This hesitation often stems from a lack of clarity in strategic planning, making it increasingly difficult to align recruitment with business goals. In today’s hiring landscape, the ability to plan ahead and forecast talent needs is no longer a luxury—it's essential. Recruitment experts are observing a notable shift. No longer are businesses simply approaching agencies with job specifications. Instead, they seek comprehensive market insights, including salary benchmarks and team structuring advice. This proactive engagement indicates that organisations are beginning to understand that recruitment strategy is deeply entwined with overall business success. "Strategic planning isn't just a financial thing" Maddy Laing, Senior Recruitment Consultant at people2people, highlights a common issue: "A lot of businesses do need to be prepared and think that they should be prepared. But once you actually dig into the details, especially around recruitment, there's usually some gaps that do need attention." Laing notes that businesses frequently fall into a reactive hiring mode, only deciding on needs once the new quarter has begun. This often results in top candidates being snapped up by more prepared competitors. "When you do recruit within a reactive process, chances are that the top candidate's already gone," she says. The shift towards strategic recruitment is echoed by Liz Jones, UK Managing Director at people2people, who notes, "Businesses aren't just coming to us with job specs. They're asking for market insights, salary trends, even advice on team structure. That early planning really makes such a difference." To combat recruitment pitfalls and build stronger hiring frameworks, both experts advocate for a structured approach. The first step is to review past recruitment patterns: which roles were hardest to fill, where growth occurred, and where gaps still exist. This data provides a solid foundation for future hiring plans. Next, it’s crucial to align hiring goals with business objectives. Whether expanding into a new region or launching a new product, understanding the type of team needed to support these initiatives is key. Laing advises, "Make sure that they are matching and in alignment... what kind of team will you need to support this and how is that going to be different to what you may have hired last year?" Retention also plays a critical role. Planning is not solely about acquiring new talent but also about keeping existing staff engaged and in the right roles. As Jones points out, "Maybe you don't need to hire many if you're investing in developing your current team." Final advice for businesses looking to stay ahead in the financial year? Collaboration. Laing stresses, "Don't plan in isolation... talk to your internal recruitment team, talk to hiring managers... and even some of your current employees." The more perspectives gathered, the stronger and more effective the hiring strategy. In a competitive market like the UK, strategic recruitment planning isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. With the financial year fast approaching, now is the time for businesses to shift gears, adopt a proactive stance, and ensure that their hiring strategy supports long-term growth.

Over half of UK employees would consider quitting if they discovered their employer was monitoring them, according to recent research. With 85% of businesses admitting to tracking screen activity and website usage, employee trust is at risk. In this blog, people2people’s UK Managing Director Liz Jones explores the impact of surveillance on workplace culture, stress, and retention. Learn how to strike the right balance between oversight and autonomy, with practical strategies to build a trust-first culture that supports both performance and wellbeing. Is your business protecting productivity—or pushing your top talent away? Read more to find out.

With the new financial year underway, UK businesses are reassessing hiring strategies and tax planning to maximise savings and ensure compliance. In this blog, people2people’s UK Managing Director Liz Jones speaks with Senior Consultant Maddy Laing about smarter workforce planning, contractor compliance, and aligning staffing with business goals. We also explore practical tax tips to avoid an EOFY hangover—covering recordkeeping, deductions, and super contributions. Learn how to get ahead with a proactive approach that reduces costs, avoids risk, and drives growth from day one. Are you setting your business up for a smarter, more strategic year ahead? Read more to find out.

Employee recognition is no longer just a ‘nice to have’—it’s a strategic necessity. In the UK, 54% of organisations now prioritise regular appreciation, with recognised employees 8x more likely to feel a sense of belonging and 5x more likely to stay. Businesses with strong recognition cultures see 87% lower burnout rates, improving morale and retention. Simple, consistent praise—whether through team meetings, milestones, or digital platforms—can boost engagement. Are you doing enough to recognise your employees and keep them motivated? Read our latest blog to find out how to build a culture of appreciation.

In 2025, graphic design interviews are about more than creativity—employers want problem-solvers, strong communicators, and adaptable professionals. A standout portfolio should showcase process, not just final designs, with 4-6 high-quality projects. Candidates must be ready to explain their design decisions, handle client feedback, and demonstrate technical skills in Adobe Suite, AutoCAD, and Revit. Soft skills like communication and collaboration are just as vital as software proficiency. Want to know how to structure your portfolio and answer key interview questions to land your dream design job? Read our latest blog for expert insights and tips.

Job seekers are under increasing pressure to stand out, leading many to exaggerate their CVs. However, with AI-driven background checks, dishonesty can ruin career prospects. Instead of taking shortcuts, focus on tailoring your CV, highlighting skills, and leveraging networking to secure roles authentically. Employers value transparency, and a strategic approach to job searching will always outweigh the risks of deception. Want to know the best ways to strengthen your job application while staying honest? Read on to discover expert insights and actionable tips to help you land your next opportunity with integrity!

A well-structured portfolio is key to standing out in today’s competitive job market. It’s not just about showcasing finished work—it should tell a compelling story of your skills, creativity, and process. Employers look for portfolios that are concise, well-organised, and up-to-date, featuring high-quality projects relevant to the roles you’re applying for. Avoid common mistakes like overloading with too many projects or lacking context. Want to know the essential elements of a winning portfolio and how to make yours stand out? Read on to discover expert insights and top tips for crafting a portfolio that gets you hired!

UK workers are shifting their priorities, valuing flexibility over pay by their early thirties. Research shows that professionals aged 30-34 increasingly prefer fewer working hours, even at the cost of lower earnings, while younger employees focus on career growth. Businesses that fail to adapt risk losing top talent to companies offering work-life balance. Competitive salaries still matter, but career progression and workplace culture play a crucial role in retention. How can businesses evolve to meet these changing expectations and attract top talent in 2025? Read on to discover key insights and strategies for building a future-proof workforce.

Employee retention is a growing challenge, with 45% of HR leaders in the UK citing competitive salaries and benefits as key retention factors. However, beyond pay, employees seek career growth, meaningful work, and flexibility. Trust, collaboration, and adaptability are essential for building high-performing teams, while micromanagement and outdated leadership styles drive turnover. How can businesses create a thriving workplace that attracts and retains top talent? Read on to discover expert insights and actionable strategies for reducing turnover and fostering a high-performing team in 2025.

British employees are clocking 251 extra hours of overtime per year, leading to burnout, stress, and declining job satisfaction. Despite this, 42% of workers are staying in their current roles due to economic uncertainty—but for how long? As the job market stabilises, many employees will look for better work-life balance, competitive salaries, and healthier workplace cultures. Employers must act now to reduce excessive workloads, improve retention strategies, and prioritise wellbeing before turnover spikes. How can businesses prevent burnout and keep their best talent? And what can employees do to regain control of their work-life balance? Read on to find out!

With 47.4% of UK managers not holding a degree, businesses are shifting towards skills-based hiring—prioritising experience, adaptability, and problem-solving over formal education. Employers now seek candidates who demonstrate real-world skills rather than just listing qualifications. This shift improves diversity, hiring outcomes, and access to top talent. Job seekers must showcase abilities through portfolios, skills assessments, and task-based interviews to stay competitive. Is the era of degree-first hiring over? How can candidates stand out in a market that values skills more than credentials? Read on to explore the future of hiring and career success!

Burnout is impacting 74% of UK workers, leading to stress, frustration, and exhaustion. Toxic workplace cultures, excessive workloads, and lack of growth opportunities are major contributors. However, modern leadership reduces burnout by 80%, and businesses that prioritise employee development, recognition, and well-being can foster a healthier workforce. Hannah Slee, Recruitment Manager at People2People, highlights the importance of leadership, appreciation, and career growth in preventing burnout. What steps can organisations take to support employees and create a thriving work environment? Read on to discover practical strategies to combat burnout and boost workplace well-being.

Struggling to attract and retain top talent? With 80% of UK employers facing skill shortages, businesses must adapt to changing workforce demands. In a recent discussion, People2People’s Hannah Slee and Maddy Laing highlighted key strategies—employer branding, workplace flexibility, and competitive benefits—that help companies stay ahead. Job seekers now prioritise work-life balance, career growth, and inclusive cultures over salary alone. Failing to attract the right talent can lead to burnout, turnover, and business decline. Is your company ready to compete in 2025’s job market? Read on to discover how to build a resilient and engaged workforce.

Discover how the UK job market is evolving in 2025, with high demand for hybrid skill sets and booming industries like tech, healthcare, and green energy. Learn about the rise of skills-first hiring, the enduring importance of workplace flexibility, and why inclusive workplace cultures are critical for attracting top talent. Whether you’re an employer or job seeker, understanding these trends can give you a competitive edge in the dynamic job market. How can you adapt to these changes and thrive in the year ahead?

Boomerang employees—professionals who return to former employers—are revolutionising high-growth sectors like fintech and biotech. Combining insider knowledge with fresh perspectives, they drive innovation, reduce hiring costs, and enhance retention. Flexible work arrangements and competitive perks are key motivators for their return, while organisations gain cultural continuity and strategic advantages. Learn how businesses are leveraging this trend to build strong talent pipelines and maintain adaptability in a dynamic market.

Make your workplace Secret Santa stress-free and enjoyable with practical tips to foster inclusivity and cheer. This blog explores the do’s and don’ts of gift-giving, featuring insights from Liz Jones, UK Managing Director at people2people, and Recruitment Manager Hannah Scanlan. Learn how to set the right budget, choose thoughtful gifts, and avoid common pitfalls like re-gifting or overly personal presents. Plus, discover ideas to make your holiday festivities truly special while respecting everyone’s preferences.

UK HR leaders are battling tech overload, increasing workloads, and outdated systems, with 73% struggling to align strategies with shifting priorities. People2People UK Managing Director Liz Jones explores how AI, employee wellbeing, and workforce reskilling can transform HR operations. She highlights the urgent need to streamline processes, prioritise mental health, and measure ROI in HR initiatives to overcome inefficiencies. Discover practical tips to tackle these challenges and create a more resilient workforce.