This blog takes findings from our report ‘Unveiling Emerging Tech Trends in 2024 and Beyond’, want to read the full thing? Access it here.

Tech hiring has always been dynamic, and 2024 is proving no different. Despite economic fluctuations, the demand for tech talent continues to surge. Companies are not only vying for the same technical skill sets but are also on the lookout for candidates who blend technical expertise with essential soft skills. The focus has shifted from merely what candidates know to how they learn, communicate, and integrate within the broader organizational culture. Interested in the next trends for tech recruitment? We cover some of the trending topics in this blog.

Onsite, remote and hybrid – what comes next?

The return to the office debate has sparked controversy in the tech industry. Many organizations argue that in-person work enhances creativity, collaboration, and a stronger company culture, which are crucial for innovation and team dynamics. Conversely, many tech employees advocate for continued remote work, citing its flexibility, reduced commuting stress, and positive impact on work-life balance. The core of the controversy lies in balancing the needs of both employers and employees.

As the data above shows, for the first time in years, remote roles are being offered less frequently than onsite roles, with hybrid roles remaining the most prevalent. Despite tech talent's strong preference for remote and hybrid positions, this shift is unsurprising as many organizations navigate a changing economy and post-Covid landscape. Whilst organizations continue to offer hybrid and onsite roles, remote roles will likely remain as popular as the past few years have shown what is possible to tech talent. Employers must now decide whether they will align with tech talent’s expectations or forge ahead with sometimes unpopular working patterns.

Upcoming Tech Hubs

While London remains the leading tech hiring hub in the UK, tech talent is thriving across the country. In addition to the well-known hubs in Manchester and Birmingham, significant tech communities are emerging in Glasgow, Reading, Leeds, and the Midlands. These cities are attracting a diverse range of tech professionals, driven by lower living costs and growing investment in local tech industries.

Our data also suggests the rise of a 'middle-belt' of experienced tech talent. Nottingham, Coventry, and Sheffield are showing great promise as new hotspots for tech professionals. These cities are not only offering competitive salaries but also fostering innovation through strong university partnerships and supportive local government initiatives. As these trends continue, we anticipate these areas will play an increasingly important role in the UK's tech landscape.

Career Progression is Crucial

The disparity between hands-on and hands-off roles in tech is striking. Behind every tech innovation are the people who make it happen, and as more mid and senior roles open up, the demand for hands-on technical talent will grow. Organizations will need to create more personalized career paths to support their tech employees, regardless of their chosen direction. For instance, hands-on roles like System Engineers and hands-off roles like Engineering Managers will require tailored career development plans and regular check-ins to ensure ongoing career progression and job satisfaction. 

Additionally, companies must invest in continuous learning opportunities and mentorship programs to help employees stay current with evolving technologies and industry trends. By doing so, organizations can maintain a motivated workforce that is equipped to drive innovation and adapt to the rapidly changing tech landscape. This approach not only benefits individual career growth but also strengthens the overall talent pool within the company.

Embracing Diversity

As company culture and mission gain importance for candidates, we predict that more tech talent will expect organizations to offer enhanced support through personalized career progression, robust organizational frameworks, and active employee resource groups. 

In the realm of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), many companies strive to create environments where employees can truly be themselves. To stand out, employers must refine their support for tech talent from the very beginning—starting with the application and interview process and continuing through onboarding and beyond. 

Once employees are on board, companies should avoid tokenism. This means taking meaningful actions to advance inclusivity, such as supporting ethnicity/race and sexual orientation groups beyond one-off celebrations. Making donations to local causes, educating the wider organization, and providing safe spaces are vital steps that can significantly impact these communities and demonstrate genuine commitment to DEI.

Next Steps

It's evident that tech recruitment continues to evolve, driven by market demands and shifting expectations. Companies must adapt to attract and retain top talent by offering flexible work environments, nurturing emerging tech hubs, and prioritizing personalized career development. The emphasis on blending technical expertise with soft skills reflects the changing landscape where adaptability and cultural fit are as crucial as technical know-how.

Additionally, the rise of new tech hubs across the UK indicates a broader distribution of tech talent, offering opportunities beyond traditional centers like London. Organizations that recognize and invest in these emerging areas will benefit from a diverse and growing talent pool.

To stay ahead in tech recruitment and for a deeper dive into these trends and more, read our full report ‘Unveiling Emerging Tech Trends in 2024 and Beyond’ here.