According to a recent report, the number of desk-based jobs is on a steady decline, creating a challenging environment for qualified candidates as they compete for fewer roles.
Employ Inc has published its latest Jobseeker National report, which incorporates survey responses from over 1,500 adults, including those in full-time, part-time, or active job searches.
This year’s insights include comparisons of AI usage, trust in the hiring process, and candidate communication preferences as we head into 2025.
Five In-Demand Positions
- Executive Director, Legislative Administration, Hartford
- Director of Congressional Issues, Washington State Council for Educational Opportunities
- Senior Policy Specialist, Arnold & Porter, Washington, DC
- Senior Education Policy Counsel/Education Policy Advisor, Civil Rights Commission, Washington, DC
- Associate Lawyer, Federal Energy Regulation Services, Larson Maddox, Washington
Current Economic Landscape
The economy appears relatively stable, though there’s a noticeable absence of optimism. About 82% of participants anticipate a “white-collar recession,” and 66% report feelings of burnout within a stagnant job market.
This report paints a tough picture, reflecting recent significant layoffs in the tech sector and ongoing job cuts affecting federal and public employees since January. Only one in three survey respondents feels comfortable leaving their job without securing another position first. Presently, job seekers seem less enthusiastic about finding new roles compared to last year, with a stronger focus on acquiring new skills to remain competitive.
Upskilling Initiatives
Despite the challenges, many job seekers are proactive and strategic. A notable 81% view training in new technologies like AI as essential to securing jobs this year.
Moreover, 89% believe that bridging the skills gap will enhance their chances of transitioning to new roles in 2025. Interestingly, those in government and technology sectors are particularly likely to stress the importance of this training.
“In a job market that rewards adaptability, learning should be treated like a requirement, not an option,” says Stephanie Manzelli, CHRO of Employ Inc. “It’s about not just closing the skills gap, but also ensuring employability—being able to adapt instantly.”
Motivations for Job Change
When asked what prompted them to seek new employment, respondents highlighted various factors. The leading reason this year appears to be “reduced compensation/wage reductions” at 31%, although many other reasons have decreased since 2024.
Burnout has dropped from 53% to 31%, economic stress from 47% to 26%, and concerns about layoffs from 40% to 21%. Thankfully, these motivations are being taken seriously, with recruiters leveraging AI tools to better understand job seekers’ issues.
Tools like Robin and Dash are designed to analyze applicants’ preferences and behaviors during the job application process, connecting them with suitable roles based on what they value most.
The report also reveals key motivators for voluntarily leaving jobs: better leadership (33%, an 8% increase from last year), improved job flexibility (32%, also up by 8 points), opportunities for career advancement (31%), changes in location (27%), and a better corporate culture (26%).
Reasons for declining job offers have also been explored. Nearly 40% cited limited career advancement or unfavorable location, while about a third refused offers due to insufficient remote work options.
On the flip side, around 20% turned down roles due to limited field opportunities. This year also saw a new reason for rejecting offers: poor interview experience, noted by 11% of respondents, while concerns about layoffs have surged from 6% in 2024 to 14% in 2025. One-third reported leaving jobs within the first 90 days due to discrepancies between job promotions and actual responsibilities.
Application Challenges
A key finding from the report confirms that candidates have less tolerance for lengthy application processes. Approximately 35% stated they would abandon applications, especially if they had to re-enter information already on their resume (32%), or if they were faced with joining a talent network (22%) or signing up and applying (19%).
Almost 71% expect the application process to be completed in under 30 minutes. AI tools are being utilized by recruiters to enhance the hiring experience, collecting CVs, directing candidates to suitable roles, and improving responsiveness.
Of those applicants who interacted with chatbots during their hiring journey, 66% felt their experience improved significantly. Key factors influencing positive candidate experiences include strong recruiter communication, a straightforward application process, and flexible interview scheduling, noted by over half of the respondents. Fortunately, it seems that recruiters are heeding these concerns and working to enhance the overall candidate experience.
If you’re in the market for new job opportunities, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on job boards, as new openings are frequently listed.
