What Digital & Creative Professionals Value Most in a Job in 2025

Insights from Our Latest Recruitment Survey

The digital and creative industries are evolving, but what truly matters to professionals in 2025? In our latest survey of digital and creative professionals, we asked about their priorities, motivators, and the key factors shaping their career decisions in 2025.

The results paint a clear picture: today’s professionals are not just chasing creative fulfilment — they’re seeking financial security, work-life balance, transparency, and a sense of purpose at work.

Here are the findings from our survey.

Salary and Work-Life Balance Matter Most

Career success is being redefined. When asked about their main focus for the next 1-3 years, 34% prioritised salary growth, followed by 26% seeking better work-life balance.

These same factors drive job changes. The main reasons professionals would leave their current roles are:

Simply put, professionals expect fair pay and flexibility—and they’re prepared to move on if they don’t get it.

Most Valued Benefits in 2025

When it comes to the benefits that matter most, paid time off came out on top, with 67% of respondents selecting it. This was closely followed by remote work support (62%), underlining how important flexibility has become for digital and creative professionals.

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Fairness and Transparency in DEI

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) remain important, but professionals want action, not just policies. Pay equity initiatives, transparent hiring and promotion practices were the leading ways employees felt organisations could demonstrate commitment.

Skills Development is Non-Negotiable

Continuous learning is key, with 71% seeking technical skills training. Other popular development opportunities include:

This mix of technical upskilling and career guidance highlights a demand for long-term career growth.

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Building a Culture of Belonging, Loyalty and Commitment

A strong workplace culture matters. Professionals said supportive teams (70%) and open communication (68%) are the biggest contributors to feeling connected at work.

For long-term commitment, the most influential factors are:

Final Takeaway

In 2025, digital and creative professionals will be practical, values-driven, and unafraid to seek better opportunities. To attract and retain them, employers must focus on:

✔ Fair pay and benefits

✔ Flexibility and work-life balance

✔ Clear career development pathways

✔ Open communication around pay and promotions

✔ A supportive, inclusive workplace where people feel valued

Trendy perks won’t cut it—getting the fundamentals right is what really makes a difference.