Recruiting

Hiring Developers in 2025: What Tech Candidates Want Now

What do developers actually want in 2025? Hint: it is not free snacks or bean bags. This article breaks down what tech talent really cares about today — from flexibility and purpose to growth and clean hiring processes. If you are trying to attract top developers in Australia, this is what you need to know.

Christian Marchese

Sep 14, 2024

The tech world moves fast and so do developers. In 2025, hiring top tech talent means understanding what they actually care about, and it goes far beyond salary.

The days of offering ping pong tables and hoping for the best are over. Developers today are thoughtful about where they work, who they work with and what impact they can make.

1. Flexibility is the new baseline

Remote or hybrid options are no longer nice to have. They are expected. Tech candidates want the freedom to choose when and where they work as long as the job gets done. Companies that offer flexibility stand out immediately.

2. Purpose matters

A strong salary is important but so is meaningful work. Developers want to feel like they are building something that matters. Whether it is solving a real problem or creating a better user experience, people want to contribute to something bigger than just code.

3. Growth over perks

Career growth beats free snacks. Opportunities to learn new skills, work on exciting projects or take on leadership roles are a major draw. If you are not investing in their development, they will find someone who is.

4. Clean hiring processes count

A long process with too many interviews and unclear feedback is a fast way to lose good candidates. Developers value a fast, clear and respectful experience. Speed and transparency can be the difference between securing a hire or losing them to someone else.

5. The stack matters

Serious developers care about what they work with. Using outdated or clunky tools can turn talent away. Companies that stay modern with their tech stack often attract stronger candidates.

Hiring in 2025 is all about being human, being clear and focusing on what matters to candidates. Tech professionals know their value. The real question is whether your hiring process shows that you do too.