The new talent equation – why flexibility and fair pay are non-negotiable

The new talent equation - why flexibility and fair pay are non-negotiable

Today’s workers aren’t chasing perks - they’re looking for balance, fairness and trust.

If you think the war for talent is cooling down, think again. People are still moving – just more deliberately. They’re weighing up what really matters. And for most, the answer is simple: fair pay, stability, flexibility.

According to The Adecco Group Workforce Trends 2026 Report, salary and work life balance top of the lists for reasons both to stay and leave a job. That tells us something important - we’ve entered the era of work-life integration.

People don’t want a job that runs their life

Gone are the days when flexible working was a perk. It’s now the baseline expectation. But flexibility means different things to different people.

Leaders tend to think about where they work - often craving remote days. Junior staff, meanwhile, want more control over when they work - to fit life around work, not the other way round.

If you offer the same flexibility package to everyone, you’ll miss the mark. The key is personalisation.

Pay still matters (a lot)

For years we told ourselves people valued culture and meaning above money. They still do - but only when the basics are covered.

Many workers don’t feel their pay reflects their contribution, particularly part-time, self-employed and temporary staff. And that’s dangerous territory in a cost-of-living crisis.

Fair, transparent pay isn’t just about budgets. It’s about respect.

Three things you can do right now

1. Ask people what flexibility really means to them
It might be different start times, compressed weeks, or the freedom to log off for the school run. Find out – don’t assume.

2. Make pay conversations open and honest
Regular benchmarking, clear communication and a willingness to listen go a long way towards trust.

3. Think about value, not just benefits
Employees are comparing offers based on how well a job fits their life – not just what’s written in the contract.

The bottom line

If you want to attract and keep great people, start by treating them as individuals. Show them you value their time, their wellbeing and their need for stability.

Because when people feel seen, heard and respected, commitment becomes a two-way street. 

Ready for the full picture? Download our Work Force Trends report today.