Skills over salaries defines workforce

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Skills are becoming the new currency in the workplace as research by international recruitment firm Robert Half reveals nearly 70% of UK employees report trading a pay rise for professional development recognizing a fundamental shift as employees change priorities.

Robert Half’s latest Salary Guide shows upskilling is emerging as a real currency of professional value say 32% of firms with hard-to-source skills such as roles that blend digital fluency including data analytics, generative AI, project management, financial strategy and compliance with sector expertise commanding the greatest salary premiums.  Most now see value in roles that offer access to AI training, data literacy and cross-functional leadership development – capabilities that enhance both employability and strategic impact.

This shift underscores a deeper truth – experience alone no longer guarantees progression; capability does.  For both sides of the market, investing in skill development is not optional but existential. “The market is now pricing in capability, not tenure.  Professionals fluent in data analytics and business intelligence, AI, project leadership, financial strategy and compliance are at the top of employers’ wish lists – and salary bands,” explains Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director UK & Ireland, Robert Half.

“What distinguishes these skills is their transferable impact.  They create clarity, speed and resilience – attributes every board values in uncertain conditions.  Competitive pay still matters, but the best offers now go to those who can drive performance through insight and innovation.  In today’s market, skills aren’t just valuable, they are what define future growth.”

“For employers, this shift means rethinking talent strategy.  Developing skills is now as vital as hiring them.  Training, leadership mobility and technology literacy are the levers through which firms will attract and retain top performers.  It signals an opportunity to view career development as an investment rather than a trade-off.  In the modern professional economy, skills have become the most consistent source of value,” comments Weston.

While some firms are scaling back on hiring or adjusting salary expectations, others are offering competitive pay to secure top talent in critical positions as UK employers increasingly prioritise professionals with specialized skills and sector expertise to drive innovation, boost efficiency and maintain a competitive edge, finds Robert Half’s research.