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Recruitment trends 2026 | 7 things to expect when hiring this year
Written by Danielle Fargnoli-Read on 22 January 2026
If there’s one thing recruitment has taught us over the past few years it is that the market rarely stands still for long.
As we head into 2026, many organisations are feeling the same mix of opportunity and uncertainty. Hiring feels more complex, candidate expectations are higher, and recruitment decisions are under more scrutiny than ever before. But with the right approach, this year also brings real opportunities to hire smarter, fairer, and more sustainably.
Below, we look at the key recruitment trends shaping how organisations attract, assess and retain talent in 2026. We also explain how WorkNest’s recruitment specialists can support you to navigate these changes confidently.
1. Skills matter more than ever (and CVs matter less)
As in 2025, there’s a clear move away from “perfect on paper” candidates towards people with the right skills and potential. In 2026, organisations are increasingly asking, “what does this role really need to deliver now and in the future?” This focus on skills-based hiring is one of the most significant recruitment trends we’re seeing this year.
Where we can support:
At WorkNest, we help organisations:
- Redesign and re-evaluate roles
- Focus on skills and behaviours
- Build assessment processes that don’t just tick boxes but genuinely support better hiring decisions
Do you need support?
Speak to us for an honest, no obligation chat on:
0345 226 8393 Lines are open 9am – 5pm
2. AI in recruitment is a helpful tool, not a silver bullet
AI isn’t new anymore but how it’s used is becoming a lot more important. Candidates want transparency, hiring managers want speed, and organisations need reassurance that fairness isn’t being compromised.
Where we can support:
We support responsible AI use in recruitment, helping you set boundaries and maintain human judgement in your hiring processes.
3. Candidate experience is a dealbreaker
Candidates remember how they were treated, even if they don’t get the job. In tight talent markets, a poor experience can damage your employer brand quickly. In 2026, expect candidate experience to be a real differentiator and a defining feature of modern recruitment trends.
Where we can support:
Our recruitment specialists can help you:
- Map and improve candidate journeys
- Refine communication
- Align recruitment processes with the culture you want people to experience from day one
4. Flexibility is the baseline, not a bonus
Hybrid working, flexible hours, and autonomy are no longer “nice to haves” for many candidates – they are expected. The challenge now is making flexibility work consistently and fairly across roles.
Where we can support:
We help organisations define what flexibility looks like in practice, ensuring clear expectations for both candidates and hiring managers.
5. DEI is moving from intent to action
Most organisations want to hire inclusively but many still struggle to turn good intentions into consistent outcomes. In 2026, we’re seeing more focus on data, accountability, and embedding inclusion into everyday recruitment decisions.
Where we can support:
From reviewing job descriptions, adverts and shortlisting practices to delivering Equality, Diversity and Inclusion training, we help make DEI practical, measurable, and meaningful.
6. Organisations are looking inwards at internal talent and progression
Hiring externally will always be important but organisations are also realising the value of their existing talent pool. Internal mobility, career pathways and development conversations are becoming taking centre stage in retention strategies.
Where we can support:
We support workforce planning, internal recruitment frameworks, and progression pathways that help people see a future with your organisation.
7. Recruitment data should tell a story
It’s not about more data – it’s about better insight and application of that data. In 2026, employers are using recruitment metrics to inform business decisions, not just report on activity.
Where we can support:
We can help your organisation interpret recruitment data, spot patterns, and use insights to improve outcomes – from time-to-hire to diversity and retention.
Stay on top of recruitment trends in 2026
These recruitment trends point to a hiring landscape that is more human, more strategic, and more closely linked to business success. Organisations that adapt early will be better placed to attract and keep the talent they need.
That’s where WorkNest comes in. Our recruitment specialists can help you:
- Cut through the noise
- Make confident decisions
- Build recruitment approaches that work for your people and your organisation
If you’re reviewing or refreshing your recruitment strategy this year, let’s talk about what hiring could look like for you in 2026. Give our team a call on 0345 226 8393 or request your free consultation using the button below.
