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As 2024 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the recruitment trends and challenges that shaped the tech sector this year. By examining what worked and where some employers struggled, we can build more inclusive strategies in 2025.
In this article, we share key insights from our Diversity in Tech report. We delve into actionable insights and practical steps for leaders looking to refine their hiring processes and build more effective teams as we move into the new year.
As organisations race to harness new technologies and accelerate digital transformation, 2024 brought a significant global surge in demand for tech talent. Our report highlights that the majority of leaders are planning to grow their tech teams, with almost half expecting a significant increase in the next 12 months.
This growing demand for talent has led to significant skill gaps, with 60% of organisations struggling to find candidates who possess the required technical expertise. As technology continues to evolve faster, traditional hiring strategies can’t keep up, resulting in a shortage of qualified professionals in critical areas.
Technical skills are essential, but so are communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Unfortunately, 31% of employers say entry level candidates lack these crucial interpersonal skills. The pandemic has amplified this problem, as remote learning and reduced social interactions have left many young professionals unprepared for collaborative work environments.
Nearly half of businesses (42%) find it hard to locate candidates with the right academic credentials. Traditional pathways into tech aren’t meeting today’s hiring needs, highlighting the importance of alternative approaches.
The good news? Solutions exist! Our report found 61% of businesses see diversity recruitment as a key tool in improving their pipeline of available talent (a motivation that has increased from 47% in 2023’s research).
Bringing in talent from different backgrounds and providing them with the right training to thrive in a professional setting can help to resolve skills deficits while building a more representative tech sector.
Here are eight actionable strategies to tap into broader talent pools and build skilled teams in 2025:
In 2024, over half of businesses introduced anti-bias training for hiring managers and half set specific diversity targets. These steps produced tangible results: 92% of organisations employing such strategies hired more candidates from underrepresented backgrounds. In 2025, these efforts should continue and evolve, ensuring your talent pipeline reflects the rich variety of perspectives that fuel innovation.
Recognising that talent shortages often stem from skill gaps, many companies utilise employee training solutions, like mthree reskill. By training both technical and soft skills, these initiatives help ensure a steady, qualified pipeline of talent. As you move into 2025, maintaining this focus on skill-building will ensure that your teams remain agile, adaptable, and well-equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Data analytics proved invaluable in identifying hard-to-fill roles and measuring the effectiveness of various hiring strategies. Using data to refine diversity initiatives and track progress enables continuous improvement and better outcomes—setting a template for smarter, more inclusive recruitment.
To further reduce unconscious bias, consider removing identifying details like names, gender, and educational background from resumes/CVs. Focusing solely on skills and experience ensures every candidate has a fair shot.
The language in your job postings matters. Neutral, welcoming wording combined with a clear commitment to diversity encourages a broader range of applicants. Tools like Textio can help ensure your messaging is inclusive and appealing to diverse talent pools.
Building a diverse team is only half the battle; retaining that talent requires an inclusive environment. Implement mentorship programmes, build inclusive hybrid working models, and establish employee resource groups to foster a culture where everyone can thrive.
Highlighting success stories, celebrating employee experiences, and engaging with diverse communities sends a powerful message about your company’s values. Demonstrating authenticity and accountability helps attract and retain top talent.
Regularly track metrics—such as diversity within your applicant pool, interview-to-offer conversion rates, and long-term retention—to spot gaps and guide strategic improvements.
The recruitment trends and challenges we observed in 2024 offer valuable guidance for 2025. By addressing skill gaps, prioritising diverse hiring practices, and employing data-driven strategies, businesses can build stronger, more resilient teams and move toward sustainable growth.
Senior leaders have a pivotal role in steering their organisations forward. To delve deeper into these trends, understand best practices, and access actionable advice, download the full Diversity in Tech Report 2024.
The data included in this article is from mthree's UK 2024 Diversity Report. We found similar trends in the US and Canadian reports. You can download each region's report here.
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