- 88% of UK technology workers say work-life balance is a top priority, yet 35% are in the office more than last year
- Feeling a sense of purpose at work is now essential for over half of UK technology professionals, nearly double the figure in 2024
- 60% of UK technology workers would reject a promotion to protect their wellbeing, but less than half trust leadership to balance business needs with employee welfare
- One in five global technology workers say they are looking for a new role because they are unhappy with decisions made by their leadership team
New data from the 2025 Talent Trends report by Michael Page reveals that half of
technology workers worldwide, including 48% in the UK, are actively pursuing new roles over the next 12 months. At the same time, over a third of technology hiring managers globally (36%) and in the UK (30%) have found it difficult to hire in the past year.
The report, based on responses from nearly 5,000 technology professionals worldwide, reveals that key factors for technology candidates considering a new role include wellbeing, flexibility, work-life balance, and inclusivity. However, as candidates set clear expectations from the outset, the demand for transparency from employers regarding policies related to these priorities continues to grow.
The tension between flexibility and back-to-office mandates
Across the technology industry, 87% of professionals globally say work-life balance is most important when thinking about work, rising slightly to 88% in the UK. Yet 38% of workers worldwide are spending more time in the office than last year, with nearly half (49%) attributing this to stricter company policies. In the UK technology sector, 35% report increased office time compared to last year, and among them, 61% say it’s due to changes in company policies.
However, a stark disconnect exists. While 48% of UK technology managers believe productivity improves in person, 41% of UK technology employees say they are more productive working from home. This discrepancy is fuelling a growing need for clarity between employers and workers - both in the UK and globally - around flexibility and the balance between remote and in-person work.
James Barrett, Managing Director, Michael Page Technology and Transformation, says: “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.
Wellbeing is a top priority for technology professionals, but trust in leadership to prioritise it is lacking
UK technology workers are not only prioritising flexibility but also placing wellbeing front and centre, with 60% saying they would turn down a promotion to maintain their wellbeing.
However, over a third (35%) of UK technology professionals do not trust their leadership to balance employee welfare alongside business goals. This mistrust is already having an impact: more than one in five UK technology workers say they are actively planning to leave their current role due to leadership decisions.
James Barrett added: “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. The good news is that employers have a real opportunity to reset the relationship. By building trust, offering true flexibility, and leading with transparency, organisations can attract the right talent and build happy, fulfilled teams.”
Technology professionals want purpose in their work but company culture isn’t keeping pace
The data also shows a clear shift in values. Over half (52%) of UK technology professionals now say having purpose in their role is essential, up from 27% last year. This is significantly higher than the global average of 32% and shows UK technology workers place a higher premium on meaningful work.
However, while expectations have grown, particularly in the UK, internal cultures are not always keeping up. Just 34% of UK technology workers say they feel they can be their authentic selves at work, and only 33% feel their workplace is inclusive. This highlights a real opportunity for employers to better communicate their culture and values to attract the right talent and build strong, engaged teams.
AI adoption grows but candidates seek clarity on policies and training
Alongside clarity on wellbeing, culture, and flexibility, candidates are increasingly focused on the technology they use at work, particularly AI. Globally, 60% of technology workers now use AI tools in their day-to-day roles, up from 43% in 2024, highlighting the rapid pace of adoption. The benefits are widely recognised, with 79% reporting increased productivity and 70% saying AI allows them to focus on more fulfilling tasks.
However, despite these advantages, candidates are seeking clearer guidance on how businesses plan to leverage AI and what training they will provide to upskill their workforce. The report finds that 43% of workers feel their employer is not adequately preparing them to use AI, while nearly one in three (29%) use AI tools not provided by their employer. As a result, having a clear stance on AI is becoming an important consideration for job seekers.
James Barrett concludes: “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. Those who do will be far better placed to attract talent in an already competitive market.”
To explore more insights from Michael Page's 2025 Talent Trends report, read more here.
