Recruitment in 2024: Challenges, Milestones & Trends
This year has been a transformative one for Bain and Gray, and likely for much of the London recruitment market. The challenges and triumphs of 2024 reflect broader trends, with distinct shifts in hiring practices and a rapidly evolving professional landscape.
The Recruitment Market in 2024: A Year of Two Halves
A Challenging First Half
The first half of 2024 was marked by caution and hesitancy in the recruitment market. Hiring timelines lengthened significantly, with roles taking an average of 8–10 weeks to fill instead of the usual six weeks. This delay caused frustrations across the board. Companies struggled to secure their preferred candidates, who often accepted other opportunities before the recruitment process concluded.
A Recovery in the Second Half
In the latter half of the year, hiring activity began to pick up, particularly for permanent roles. Despite this improvement, caution remains prevalent in the market. A noticeable trend has been the rise in temporary-to-permanent positions. This approach allows companies to refine role requirements and ensure a confident, informed hiring decision.
Bain and Gray’s Key Milestones in 2024
Streamlined Candidate Attraction Strategies
At Bain and Gray, we focused on refining our processes to better serve both clients and candidates. By consolidating our business strategies, we have streamlined our candidate attraction methods to identify and profile the best talent available in the market. These improvements have allowed us to meet the evolving needs of our clients more efficiently and effectively.
Transition to an Employee-Owned Business
One of the most significant milestones this year was our transition to an Employee-Owned Business. This change has been an exciting and rewarding challenge, as we’ve worked to ensure that all employees have a voice in business decisions. We have focused on fostering a collaborative, homogeneous culture that reflects the behaviours needed to remain a market leader. This milestone is not just about ownership but about creating a workplace that empowers our team to excel together.
Adapting to Recruitment Trends and Technology
Leveraging the Links Platform
The roles we recruit for are rapidly evolving, shaped by technological advancements and changing job requirements. Through our Links platform, we have stayed ahead of these changes, educating clients and candidates on emerging trends. This proactive approach has helped businesses and job seekers navigate these shifts and understand how technology can enhance efficiency and decision-making.
Links Podcasts
For those seeking expert insights into the job market, our Links podcast series is an invaluable resource. From exploring recruitment trends and emerging technologies to offering practical career advice, these episodes provide guidance tailored to professionals and businesses alike.
Whether you are planning your next career move or strategising your hiring approach, our podcasts deliver actionable insights to help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of work. Perfect for the festive season, tune in and equip yourself with the knowledge to step confidently into 2025.
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
As we move into 2025, Bain and Gray remains committed to adapting, innovating, and leading in the London recruitment market. Whether you are a business seeking top talent or a professional looking for your next opportunity, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Conclusion: Reflecting on 2024
This year has been one of change, challenges, and growth. From adapting to cautious hiring trends to embracing employee ownership and technological advancements, Bain and Gray has emerged stronger and more prepared for the future.
From all of us at Bain and Gray, we wish you a joyful festive season and a successful 2025.
