A recent survey of 258 recruitment consultancies conducted by the Association of German Management Consultancies (BDU) reveals a shift in employee behavior: more people are opting to stay in their current roles. According to the survey, 52% of consultancies reported a significant decline in candidates’ willingness to change jobs since the start of the year.
Arne Adrian, managing director of PAWLIK Recruiters and chair of the HR Consulting Division of the BDU: “Many employees still feel a weak connection to their company, which has led to significant turnover in the past. However, in these uncertain times, more are choosing to stay with their current employer for the time being.” Extrinsic motivators like career advancement and higher salaries are having less impact than the growing desire for stability and a better work-life balance.
According to the survey, 55% of recruitment consultancies reported a significant increase in rejected job offers.. “Qualified specialists and managers who are open to change now have their pick of opportunities due to the shortage of suitable candidates,” explains Arne Adrian. For candidates, the current market conditions offer some of the best opportunities for career advancement – financially and professionally – in years.
To attract top talent, companies need to make greater efforts, particularly in areas like personal development, company values, and organizational purpose. Employers must answer the critical question, “Why should I work for you?” with clarity and conviction. This is especially true in the startup and tech sectors, where expectations of employers are rising. A trendy product alone is no longer enough, notes Adrian. Leadership skills are now in demand.
86% of HR consultancies have good business prospects
Despite challenges in attracting candidates, the recruitment industry remains optimistic. A total of 86% of consultancies surveyed described their business outlook as either “good” (40% exceeding budget targets) or “satisfactory” (46%). To meet evolving demands, recruitment firms have prioritized digitalizing their processes, with 73% now heavily relying on digital tools to identify and engage top talent efficiently.
Arne Adrian
Arne Adrian is Managing Director of the PAWLIK Group and Managing Director of the HR consultancy PAWLIK Recruiters, which specializes in filling top management positions internationally through scientifically driven personnel diagnostics. At 56, he also leads the Human Resources Association of the Federal Association of German Management Consultants (BDU).
About PAWLIK Group
The PAWLIK Group is a European leader in the sustainable implementation of strategies, putting people at the heart of every initiative. The Group specializes in talent and organizational development, HR consulting, and digital transformation consulting. Founded in 1996 by Joachim Pawlik in Hamburg, the PAWLIK Group now operates with over 500 experienced consultants and employees across 16 international locations, offering global support for clients’ most pressing challenges. Committed to driving digital transformation, the PAWLIK Group continually expands its services through strategic ventures and investments in innovative service providers. Its consulting approach is integrative, systemic, and focused on delivering actionable results.
