Beyond Salary: What Irish Candidates Really Want in 2026

For many years, salary was the deciding factor when candidates considered a new role. While competitive pay remains important, it is no longer the only priority for professionals across Ireland.

As the labour market continues to evolve, employers are finding that attracting and retaining skilled talent requires a broader employee value proposition. Candidates are looking for organisations that support their professional development, respect work life balance, and provide flexibility alongside financial reward.

Flexibility is now an expectation

Hybrid working has become firmly established across many sectors in Ireland, particularly within financial services, technology, professional services and life sciences.

While some organisations have introduced more office based working, candidates continue to place significant value on flexibility. Many are willing to consider returning to the office more frequently when there is a clear purpose, such as collaboration, mentoring or team development. What they are less willing to accept is rigid policies without a clear business reason.

Employers that communicate their flexible working approach clearly during the recruitment process are often better positioned to attract experienced professionals.

Career development matters more than ever

Candidates increasingly want to know what happens after they accept an offer.

Questions about training, mentoring, leadership opportunities and internal progression are now common throughout the interview process. Professionals want confidence that they can continue to develop their skills without needing to change employer every few years.

Organisations that invest in learning and provide visible career pathways are often viewed as more attractive than those offering a higher salary but limited progression.

Wellbeing has become a business priority

Employee wellbeing is no longer seen as an additional benefit. It has become an important part of how candidates assess potential employers.

Flexible working arrangements, access to wellbeing initiatives, supportive leadership and realistic workloads all contribute to creating an environment where employees feel valued.

Businesses that genuinely prioritise wellbeing are also more likely to experience stronger engagement and improved retention.

Purpose influences career decisions

Many professionals are looking beyond the job description. They want to understand the organisation's values, leadership style and long term vision.

Candidates increasingly ask questions about sustainability, diversity and inclusion, social responsibility and company culture. They want to work for organisations where they feel their contribution has meaning and where they can see how their work supports wider business goals.

Authenticity is key. Candidates can quickly identify when employer branding does not reflect the actual employee experience.

Speed still matters

Despite changing priorities, one factor remains consistent across the Irish recruitment market. Candidates expect an efficient recruitment process.

Top talent often receives multiple opportunities within a short period. Delayed interview feedback, lengthy approval processes or poor communication continue to result in employers losing strong candidates.

A positive recruitment experience reflects positively on an organisation, regardless of whether the candidate accepts the role.

What employers should focus on

As competition for skilled professionals continues, organisations should consider whether they are offering the complete package that today's candidates expect.

This includes:

• Competitive and transparent salary packages
• Flexible working arrangements where appropriate
• Clear career development opportunities
• Strong leadership and supportive management
• A positive workplace culture
• Efficient and engaging recruitment processes

Looking to grow your team?

Understanding what candidates value is only part of the equation. Turning those insights into a successful hiring strategy is what makes the difference.

If you're looking to hire in Ireland, our team at Sanderson can help you attract, engage and secure the right talent across a range of industries.

Get in touch with us at Sanderson to discuss your hiring plans and find out how we can support your recruitment needs.

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