top of page
Search

Level Up: In-Demand Skills Employers Want in the UK (2025 Edition)

Updated: May 6

How are you settling into the UK job market? Whether you're just getting started or adjusting to a new career path, you're not alone. The landscape is changing fast, shaped by digital transformation, hybrid work culture, and a growing need for cross-functional skills. Whether you're an international professional, a mid-career changer, or entering the UK workforce for the first time, staying ahead means knowing what employers are actually looking for in 2025.


Here’s a breakdown of the most in-demand skills UK employers want this year, drawn from industry insights, recruiter feedback, and employer surveys.


Here’s a breakdown of the most in-demand skills employers want in the UK this year, drawn from industry insights, recruiter feedback, and employer surveys

1. Digital & Tech Fluency

Employers are prioritizing candidates who understand and can work with digital systems. Even non-tech roles now demand digital confidence.

  • AI & Machine Learning Awareness – Understanding AI trends and their workplace impact.

  • Data Literacy – Knowing how to read and interpret data using tools like Excel, Power BI, and Tableau.

  • Cybersecurity Basics – Especially for roles handling client data.

  • CRM & Digital Marketing Tools – Experience with platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, Mailchimp, or Google Analytics.

2. Communication & Collaboration Skills

How you connect, work, and present your ideas matters more than ever.

  • Professional Communication – Clear writing, public speaking, and structured messaging.

  • Cross-Cultural Collaboration – Vital in the UK’s diverse, global work environment.

  • Stakeholder Engagement – From emails to board meetings, being able to influence and update with confidence is key.

3. Adaptability, Critical Thinking & Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Navigating change is now a core part of every role.

  • Adaptability – Comfort with change, ambiguity, and new systems.

  • Resilience – The mental stamina to recover quickly and stay productive.

  • EQ – Self-awareness, empathy, conflict resolution, and team collaboration.

4. Project & Process Skills

You don’t need to be a project manager to think like one.

  • Project Management – Planning, organizing, and delivering results on time.

  • Process Improvement – Finding ways to make systems and workflows more efficient.

  • Digital Organisation Tools – Familiarity with Notion, Asana, Trello, or MS Teams.

5. Industry-Specific Skills + Certifications

Whether it’s health, finance, education, or creative industries—having a mix of general and sector-specific knowledge sets you apart.

  • Health & Care: Safeguarding, data compliance, patient systems (NHS).

  • Education & Public Sector: Inclusion, compliance, safeguarding.

  • Tech/IT: Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), Python, or SQL.

  • Creative & Digital: UX/UI, branding, digital storytelling.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re job hunting or looking to switch careers in 2025, don’t just tick off skills—demonstrate them. Use LinkedIn, your CV, and interviews to show how you’ve applied these in real-life settings.

EMF Tip: Start with what you already know and build from there. You don’t need to master everything—just pick 2–3 relevant areas to focus on for the next 3–6 months.


Coming up next: Unlocking Hidden Skills: A Guide to Career Success in the UK


Want help getting started?

Please note:

This blog offers general tips and insights based on UK market trends. For personalised advice, please seek tailored career support.

© 2025 Elevate My Future. For personal use only.


Comments

bottom of page