Tech Career Decoded #22: The state of tech talent in 2025

The results from the Michael Page Talent Trends 2025 survey are in, and the message is clear: the majority of tech professionals are feeling more confident and valued in their careers. They know their worth and are ready to make a change, but only for an opportunity that perfectly matches their ambitions.

This edition of Tech Career Decoded will explore this empowered tech workforce, including their key motivations, what they expect from employers, and the behaviours shaping their career choices. From the demand for flexible, values-driven work that supports wellbeing, to the critical need for long-term growth opportunities, we’re unpacking what it means to truly connect with tech talent in 2025.

🚀5 tech talent trends shaping careers and hiring in 2025

The outlook for tech professionals in 2025 shows a clear trend towards greater confidence and contentment in their careers. Our findings indicate a significant improvement in how tech talent views their current roles and the broader employment landscape. This growing confidence isn't just a feeling; it's backed by tangible improvements in job security and satisfaction.

Here are 5 of the biggest tech talent trends from our report:

1️⃣ Tech employees are happier, safer, and more empowered

A remarkable 68% of tech professionals now report feeling secure in their current role, an increase from 64% in 2024. This enhanced sense of stability is understandably contributing to overall job happiness. Job satisfaction among tech talent has seen a big jump, rising to 59% in 2025 from an even 50% the year before.

“In Europe, tech candidates are more satisfied compared to other industries due to higher salaries and flexible working conditions compared to other professionals. While the number of professionals in the sector has increased, the development of new technologies and the transformation of some roles into more tech-focused profiles have made tech talent highly sought after, keeping demand higher than supply.”

Salary satisfaction has also climbed, with 62% of tech professionals content with their earnings in 2025, compared to 57% in 2024. However, while nearly half (48%) of tech professionals attempted to negotiate a pay rise in the last year, only 25% of them were successful.

💡 Key takeaway: Tech professionals are experiencing increased satisfaction and security, which isn’t just good news—it’s a clear signal of rising power in the job market. There is less willingness to settle for roles or conditions that fail to meet evolving standards, and employers are taking note. Competitive salaries, clear career progression, and a supportive environment that truly values contributions aren’t just nice-to-haves anymore; they have become essential elements to expect and demand from any prospective employer.

2️⃣ High mobility, low loyalty

While tech professionals may be happier and more secure, employers should not mistake contentment for long-term commitment. Our data reveals a paradox: even as active job hunting cools slightly, the potential for turnover remains exceptionally high. An overwhelming 89% of tech professionals are open to new roles, signalling that loyalty is conditional and most are willing to consider a better offer.

“Technology professionals are typically more open to changing roles than others because the work is very project-based. You’re working on something, then it’s finished, then it’s maintenance, and then you want to move on to the next project. At the same time, people are questioning whether it’s the right time to change jobs. Will they really get something very different from what they have now? People are adopting more of a 'let’s wait and see' mentality before making any drastic career moves. The uncertainty in the world has made everyone more cautious about jumping ship.”

The number of professionals actively looking for a new job has decreased modestly to 50% this year from 54% in 2024. This slight drop suggests that rather than a sign of deep-seated loyalty, tech talent is taking a more strategic, “wait-and-see" approach in 2025. They are confident in their current positions but are keeping a close watch on the market for the right opportunity to arise. In fact, 54% of tech professionals expect to leave their current role within the next two years.

💡 Key takeaway: With nearly 9 out of 10 tech professionals open to new opportunities, the value in the market is clear. This means current employers can’t afford to see commitment as a one-time achievement; loyalty must be continuously earned. It is important to expect and seek out roles that remain engaging, where growth is prioritised, and where the company culture provides truly compelling reasons to stay.

3️⃣ Retaining talent is about more than just salary 

When asked why they are looking for new roles, compensation is a leading reason, with 36% of tech professionals citing dissatisfaction with their current salary. However, this is nearly matched by the ambition for growth, as 35% are looking for a promotion or concrete career progression.

Beyond these top two drivers, 28% of tech professionals are looking to explore international opportunities, showcasing a global mindset and a desire for broader life experiences. This is followed closely by the need for professional development, with 23% seeking better training opportunities. 

Critically, internal company dynamics play a huge role in pushing talent away. Poor leadership decisions are a direct trigger for 22% of job seekers, while a misaligned company culture causes another 20% to look elsewhere. And when you consider the cumulative impact of factors like boredom, a lack of flexibility, and wellbeing concerns (which collectively influence half of all professionals), the message becomes undeniable: the quality of the work environment and the employee experience are paramount. 

💡 Key takeaway: A competitive salary is just the starting point for top tech talent; it’s not what keeps professionals engaged and thriving. The data clearly shows that growth, purpose, and a supportive culture are the real anchors. It is important to find employers who invest in transparent career pathways, offer meaningful training, and cultivate strong, supportive leadership.

4️⃣ Work-life balance and wellbeing are non-negotiables

In 2025, work-life balance is no longer optional for tech professionals, it's a core component of career satisfaction. An overwhelming 87% of tech professionals rank work-life balance as a top priority, making it a near-universal expectation. And 74% placed it among the top three most important aspects of their current role.

When asked about the elements of company culture that most influence job satisfaction, 52% of tech professionals ranked work-life balance as their number one priority among the top five factors. More telling still, over half say they would decline a promotion if it meant sacrificing their personal wellbeing. Traditional career progression is no longer the ultimate goal if it comes at the cost of mental health.

💡 Key takeaway: The demand for genuine work-life balance and a focus on wellbeing is an immovable expectation. This must be treated as a core business strategy, not just a wellness initiative. Promoting a culture that champions balance, respects personal time, and actively prevents burnout is essential for both attracting and retaining top tech talent.

5️⃣ Flexible work arrangements are the norm

The debate over where work gets done appears to be settled for most tech professionals. Flexible working arrangements are now expected, and hybrid models are the established norm, with 54% of tech talent currently operating under this structure.

“While 100% remote work is no longer a strong demand from candidates as it was in recent years, companies need to continue prioritising flexibility. Finding a balance between fostering engagement and culture without losing the flexibility gained in recent years is essential, otherwise, talent may quickly look for companies or working models that better meet their expectations.”

Iñigo Fernández Alonso , Senior Executive Director, Europe

When asked where they do their best work, the answer is definitive: 42% of tech professionals feel more productive at home, compared to just 24% who feel most productive in the office. Forcing a change to this preferred way of working represents a significant risk for employers. A substantial 41% of tech professionals state they would look for another job if their employer required them to come into the office more often.

💡 Key takeaway: The data shows a clear flight risk associated with rigid return-to-office mandates. Instead of focusing on physical presence, employers should trust their teams and build policies around the productivity and autonomy that tech talent clearly values.

Access the full Talent Trends 2025 report

Enjoyed these insights? Download our free Talent Trends 2025 report. Whether you're building a team or growing your career, get the answers you need to gain a competitive edge.

֎How AI is impacting the 2025 Tech Talent Trends

How can companies better attract and retain tech professionals? And how is AI influencing career decisions? We put these questions to two Michael Page experts, Nicolas Dumoulin (Senior Managing Director, Southeast Asia) and Iñigo Fernández Alonso (Senior Executive Director, Europe), seasoned leaders at Michael Page responsible for driving our Technology practice globally. Here's their advice based on regional trends:

“Clients must continue to offer candidates opportunities for growth and professional development, especially in terms of learning and involvement in innovative projects. Tech candidates are generally known for their curiosity and desire to keep evolving and stay at the forefront of technology. In this sense, companies that are able to create this kind of environment will find it easier to attract and retain talent. It’s also important for companies to invest in the adoption and proper use of AI within their organisations in order to remain competitive in the future.”

Iñigo Fernández Alonso, Senior Executive Director, Europe

“What we’re seeing now is that candidates actively want to get a flavour of AI in their roles. They want to start working on AI and automation somewhere in their responsibilities because they know this is where things are evolving. If you don’t get on the train now, you will be left behind. This is something higher-skilled candidates are looking for. If you’re working on advanced AI or automation projects, that’s typically where you’ll have a good pull to attract more talented candidates into your company. It’s become a real differentiator in the talent market.”

Nicolas Dumoulin , Senior Managing Director Southeast Asia

With tech talent feeling more empowered but also ready to move for the right offer, we want to hear directly from you. Beyond salary, what is the single most important thing that makes you feel genuinely loyal to a company and satisfied in your role? Join the conversation and let us know in the comments!  

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Thanks for reading! 

The Michael Page Technology team