Nearly half (48%) of UK technology professionals are actively looking for new roles over the next 12 months, with candidates placing greater emphasis on flexibility, work-life balance, wellbeing and inclusive workplace cultures.
That’s according to the 2025 Talent Trends report by Michael Page. The global data, drawn from close to 5,000 technology workers, shows a similar trend worldwide, where 50 percent of respondents are also planning a job move. This comes as 30 percent of UK technology hiring managers report difficulties in recruitment over the past year.
James Barrett, Managing Director, Michael Page Technology and Transformation, said, “What we’re seeing is flexibility is now a core differentiator in the fight for technology talent. The disconnect between employer policy and employee preference on where work happens is not just a cultural tension. It is a competitive risk. Businesses that get this right, with clear expectations and a balanced hybrid model, will be better placed to attract, retain and motivate the people they need.”
The survey also found that a significant number of technology workers are spending more time in the office than in previous years. In the UK, 35 percent of respondents said their in-office time had increased, with 61 percent of those attributing the change to stricter company rules.
Workplace flexibility and productivity expectations
Work-life balance remains the most important factor for 88 percent of UK technology professionals. However, 48 percent of UK technology managers believe productivity improves when employees are in the office, while 41 percent of employees say they are more productive when working from home.
This mismatch has highlighted a broader need for clarity between employer expectations and employee preferences regarding hybrid work policies. The report suggests that the lack of alignment may contribute to staff dissatisfaction and could increase turnover if not addressed.
Alongside flexibility, wellbeing is a central concern for UK professionals. Sixty percent of those surveyed would turn down a promotion if it compromised their wellbeing. Despite this, 35 percent of respondents do not trust their leadership to balance employee welfare with business objectives. More than one in five UK tech workers said they are planning to leave their current roles due to leadership decisions.
Barrett said, “Technology teams have led the charge over the past few years in businesses, from keeping organisations running during lockdown to driving rapid digital transformation. That intensity has taken a toll, and professionals are now rightly prioritising wellbeing and purpose.”
Purpose and inclusion are priorities
The report reveals a rising demand for purpose-driven work. Fifty-two percent of UK technology professionals say having purpose in their role is essential, up from 27 percent in 2024. This compares with a global average of 32 percent, indicating that UK workers place greater value on meaningful work.
Despite this shift, workplace cultures are not always meeting employee expectations. Only 34 percent of UK respondents feel they can be their authentic selves at work and just 33 percent believe their workplace is inclusive.
The findings suggest that companies looking to attract technology professionals must do more than offer competitive salaries. Communicating culture and values clearly, and creating genuinely inclusive environments, are now central to recruitment and retention strategies in the sector.
AI use rises but skills and policy support are lacking
Technology professionals are also increasingly focused on how organisations use and support emerging tools, particularly artificial intelligence. Globally, AI usage among technology workers rose from 43 percent in 2024 to 60 percent in 2025. Increases in productivity and the ability to focus on more fulfilling work were among the most reported benefits, with 79 percent and 70 percent of respondents citing these advantages respectively.
Despite the positive impact, concerns remain about how well organisations are equipping employees to use these tools. Forty-three percent of respondents feel their employers are not providing sufficient training or guidance on AI. Almost one in three (29%) say they are using AI tools that are not officially provided by their organisation.
Barrett added, “What technology professionals want is clear: flexibility, balance and purpose. It’s now up to employers to deliver, through real policies, a supportive culture, and transparent leadership which shows direction, explains intent and builds confidence.”
