Skills gaps, return-to-office policies, retirements and AI advances are reshaping the workforce.
Global talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half has released its 2025 Salary Guide, which reveals critical insights on hiring and compensation trends. The research examines labor market dynamics, benefits and perks, and starting salaries for hundreds of positions in various professional fields across the United States.
“There’s less churn in today’s market, which means employers are increasingly focused on strategies to keep their best employees and attract new candidates to address skills gaps,” said Dawn Fay, operational president at Robert Half. “While salary remains a critical factor for today’s professionals, flexible work arrangements, career development and other perks are also top of mind.”
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Robert Half’s 2025 Salary Guide is an essential resource for both employers and job seekers. Here are four key findings from the research:
- In-office premiums: For jobs that can be done remotely, 66% of managers are willing to increase starting salaries for new hires to work in the office. Of those, 59% are offering workers up to 20% more pay to come in 4 to 5 days a week.
- AI is transforming skill requirements: More than half (54%) of hiring managers say advancements in AI and automation are reshaping needed skill sets. Additionally, 37% are bringing in contract talent to support AI-related projects.
- Professionals seek comprehensive compensation packages: Nearly half (48%) of managers rank meeting candidates’ salary expectations among their greatest hiring challenges. Providing and promoting benefits and perks that support employee well-being, work-life balance and career advancement can make an offer more attractive.
- Retirements sharpen priorities: Retirements are a top concern and reality for managers, and many are implementing strategic measures to bridge the resulting skills gaps. Forty-five percent are investing in training and upskilling for their current workforce, and another 41% are leveraging the expertise of retirees by rehiring them as part-time consultants.
“Companies are reassessing their staffing needs and compensation strategies as the employment landscape evolves,” said Fay. “It’s important for job seekers to consider their must-haves when evaluating job offers and negotiating compensation packages.”
For professionals looking to maximize their earning potential and advance their careers, Robert Half recommends the following:
- Leverage resources like the 2025 Salary Guide from Robert Half to research current salary ranges.
- Evaluate the entire compensation package, including benefits and perks, and discuss options to improve work-life balance.
- Be open to more in-office work, which allows for face-to-face interaction with colleagues and in-person training and upskilling.
- Prioritize training and professional certifications to boost your skill set and marketability.
- Explore contract positions that provide exposure to different projects, teams, work environments and industries.
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