In an era where technology is the backbone of economic progress, the role of technology professionals has never been more pivotal. These experts are at the forefront of driving innovation, boosting efficiency, and facilitating the digital transformation of industries. As companies plan their recruitment and retention strategies for 2025, a deeper understanding of what motivates these professionals is crucial for fostering growth and success.
Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology, has released the results of an independent study titled Innovating the Culture of Tomorrow. The research, which surveyed technology professionals worldwide, explores key factors that influence their choice of employers and career paths.
Innovation is the most important factor when choosing an employer
According to the study, innovation is a defining priority for technology professionals. Nearly half (48%) of respondents identified a company’s innovative culture as the most important factor when selecting an employer. This outranks traditional incentives like an attractive salary (45%) and better work-life balance (44%). Professional growth opportunities and a positive work environment (43% each) also feature prominently.
Interestingly, 95% of tech professionals believe their current employer is innovative, and an equal number consider it essential that their company is seen as a leader in innovation. The appeal of innovation is so strong that nearly two-thirds (63%) said they would take a pay cut to work for a top brand or sector leader, with this sentiment strongest in India and the UK.
Innovation doesn’t just attract talent—it also fosters retention. Among those working at innovative companies, 19% plan to stay for six to ten years, nearly double the percentage at non-innovative firms. However, technology professionals are also highly mobile: 42% anticipate changing jobs in the next five years.
Adapting to emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and extended reality is another priority. Two-fifths (40%) of tech professionals expect to undergo at least three career pivots during their careers to stay relevant, underscoring the need for continuous upskilling and adaptability.
Training and collaboration will be a key for employers to satisfy tech professionals
A key takeaway from the study is the importance of continuous professional development. A quarter of respondents (24%) felt that their current employer does not invest enough in their training. While many technology professionals receive around 7.5 hours of training per month on average, 8% reported receiving less than one hour of training each month. To retain top talent, companies must prioritize learning and development, with 48% of respondents pointing to flexible working hours as another essential factor for job satisfaction and retention.
For technology professionals, collaboration and access to cutting-edge tools are fundamental to fostering innovation. 48% of workers believe that opportunities to brainstorm and test ideas across departments are crucial to their creativity.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion perspectives pose challenges for employers
A supportive, purpose-driven company culture that emphasizes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) is seen as an essential factor. A significant 93% of professionals stated that it is important for their employer to be purpose-led, with 79% stressing the importance of DE&I initiatives during recruitment.
Despite these priorities, the study also revealed that discrimination remains a significant issue in tech workplaces. Over a third (34%) of professionals reported experiencing age-related discrimination, the most common form of bias encountered. However, more than half (53%) of respondents feel that their employer genuinely cares about them, suggesting that while challenges persist, there is room for improvement in fostering inclusive, supportive environments.
What can tech leaders do to attract talent?
As companies seek to attract and retain the best technology talent, the study underscores several strategies for success.
First, fostering a culture of psychological safety is essential. Employees must feel free to take risks and innovate without the fear of negative repercussions.
Organizations must invest in their workforce’s long-term growth by providing training opportunities that stretch their skills and allow for continuous development.
Finally, flexibility in both work location and hours will be crucial. With the rise of remote and hybrid work models, companies that offer flexibility will have a competitive edge in attracting top talent. At the same time, providing an office environment that supports both collaboration and quiet, focused work will be key to fostering creativity.
In conclusion, as technology continues to evolve, organizations must adapt their recruitment and retention strategies to meet the needs and expectations of the modern workforce. By prioritizing innovation, continuous learning, flexibility, and diversity, companies can create a thriving environment where technology professionals can flourish.
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