The evolution of acquiring and keeping top talent has begun, and the competition is focused on snagging the best hires from the talent pool. The landscape of human resources is rapidly changing, and 2025 is gearing towards even more consequential changes. From AI in recruitment to enhancing methods in employee retention, the future of HR has an opportunity to be more effective and efficient. Let’s embrace the advancements in technology and current highly skilled personnel as we look into HR strategies and tactics for 2025. 

Top HR Trends in 2025  

Experts at finding skilled workers and building companies’ workforces, Acara Solutions surveyed organizations to understand their main goals and challenges with recruiting, hiring, and retaining employees.  

Let’s see what they had to say… 

Question: What Workplace Priority Will Have the Greatest Impact? 

 This poll reached manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and consulting professionals. No matter which industry the participants belonged to, there was a common answer. 

 Answer: The poll revealed that 47% of respondents believe upskilling employees will significantly impact their organizations in 2025. In a close second, 40% said that embracing flexible work models would have the greatest impact. 

This trend aligns perfectly with the growing emphasis on skills-based hiring. As the job market evolves, companies recognize the value of finding job seekers with the “right” skills and training their existing personnel to develop their workforce. 

Question: What Role will AI Play in Recruitment and Talent Acquisition?

AI technology and automation software are revolutionizing the HR process. While some businesses embrace advancing AI practices within their organization, others are unsure. Leaders want to be efficient but still feel personable with a human touch when hiring.  

Answer: Our poll shows that respondents plan to use AI to help with talent acquisition (22%), employee engagement (30%), and performance management (30%). We found that 19% are still exploring ideas to integrate AI into their processes and procedures. 

With nearly split results between the poll options, Acara found that many companies are looking to use AI to enhance employee journey and operational efficiency. 

Question: What is the Most Efficient Strategy to Retain Top Talent?

You found hardworking employees who are great at what they do, so how can you keep them from exploring “better opportunities?” Retaining employees is becoming a bigger challenge today, with competition offering higher pay and remote work environments.  

Answer: When it comes to retaining top-performing workers, 46% of our respondents believe competitive compensation will be the most effective strategy.  

While initiatives like work-life balance, company culture, and career development are just as important to some, financial incentives seem to be the top strategy to hang onto the best workers. 

Question: What Approach Will Gain the Most Traction for Workplace Learning?

 Looking into the future of workplace learning, organizations are continually looking for ways to improve and enhance how human resources and departments onboard, train, and develop employees.   

 Answer: It is safe to say that AI will be a part of the workforce landscape in the unforeseeable future, and 48% of participants in our poll see AI-driven learning platforms gaining the most traction when it comes to worker development.  

Even though nearly half of the participants feel AI is paving the way for company learning, others feel personalized learning paths and microlearning are still valuable tactics for AI technologies. 

How to Apply Trends to Your Human Resource Plan 

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of HR and recruitment, employers must adapt their strategies to stay competitive and attractive to top candidates in their industries. Here are four key actions that organizations should consider implementing: 

1. Invest in Your People – Prioritize upskilling programs to keep your workforce loyal and engaged. 
2. Leverage Technology & Resources – Implement AI and automation solutions that enhance both employee experience and operational efficiency. 
3. Stay Competitive – While development and company culture matter, don’t underestimate the power of a strong compensation package. 
4. Embrace AI-Driven Learning – Consider adopting AI-powered learning platforms to provide unique development opportunities for your team. 

View our salary guides or request a custom marketing compensation report.  

2025 has just begun, and there is still plenty of time to adapt to ongoing challenges by improving your processes with these trends and tactics. By focusing on these key areas, companies can create a more resilient, engaged, and skilled workforce capable of meeting future challenges. 

As you strategize your next steps, remember you don’t have to do it alone. Acara Solutions can be an excellent HR resource to support your internal departments. From contingent staffing to contract-to-direct, their six decades of experience have supported various industries with talent acquisition, recruitment, and hiring. Learn more about trending topics and connect with us on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram!