The 3 key skills employers are seeking in 2025

As recruiters, we’re in daily conversations with employers about what they’re looking for in new hires, and some skills are standing out more than ever. While core job requirements haven’t changed, we’re seeing a growing emphasis on data literacy, commercial acumen and customer insight. These skills are becoming increasingly valuable across industries, helping professionals stand out and make a real impact in their roles.

1. Data literacy

Data is no longer just for analysts; most roles now require a basic understanding of how to acquire, interpret, and use data to drive decisions. With the UK’s data sector contributing £343 billion annually and employing 1.5 million people, businesses are prioritising candidates who can work confidently with data.

Employers tell us they don’t just want people who can read reports; they want those who know how to use data to solve problems, track performance, and create efficiencies. This trend is backed by education data and there has been a 14% rise in engineering and technology degree applications as more professionals recognise the growing importance of data skills.

For job seekers, that means getting comfortable with data-driven thinking, whether through Excel, analytics tools, or AI-powered platforms.

2. Commercial acumen

The more senior your role, the more commercially minded you need to be. Employers increasingly expect their teams to understand the bigger picture, how their organisation makes money, where costs can be reduced, and how market forces impact the business.

This isn’t just about finance; it’s about understanding industry trends, competition, and how different business functions work together to drive success. We’ve seen a particular demand for professionals who can connect the dots between cost, sales, customer experience, and long-term strategy.

The UK’s Business and Trade Select Committee has also flagged the need for stronger commercial skills, especially in digital and green industries, two areas set to dominate job growth.

For candidates, this means paying attention to your company’s financial reports, competitor moves, and sector trends. The more commercially aware you are, the more valuable you’ll be.

3. Customer insight

We’re hearing the same message from hiring managers across multiple sectors: employees need to understand their customers better. Whether you work in sales, marketing, product development, or operations, knowing your customer base is essential.

Employers want staff who can talk confidently about who their customers are, what they want, and how often they buy. It’s about seeing beyond your immediate role and recognising how your work impacts the end customer experience.

With businesses investing more in data-driven personalisation, those who can interpret customer data and adapt accordingly will have a huge advantage in the job market.

The future belongs to those who adapt

As recruiters, we see first-hand how businesses are evolving, and the skills they prioritise are shifting. Data literacy, commercial acumen, and customer insight are coming up time and again as the qualities that set candidates apart. Whether you’re looking for your next role or simply thinking about how to stay ahead in your industry, these skills are becoming more valuable than ever. Staying curious, commercially aware, and customer-focused will put you in a strong position for whatever comes next.