A far too common insight from recent research conducted by job board Indeed reveals that the vast majority of job seekers have experienced poor communication in the hiring process, with 88% of candidates experiencing being ghosted by recruiters or employers.
Attending this year’s RCSA Talent X in Sydney offered some particularly relevant insights for those of us in temporary and contingent workforce recruitment. Talent X is an annual one-day event hosted by our industry body, the Recruitment, Consulting & Staffing Association (RCSA).
Amongst the excitement of attending a huge trade show, with a packed program of key note presentations, breakout talks and networking opportunities, one session was a stand out for me.
The Psychology of a Yes: What Aussie Job Seekers Really Want, led by Rachel Townsley (Indeed), with Danielle Johnson (Sirius) and Kylie Heffernan (Horner Recruitment), explored shifting candidate expectations and the role recruiters – acting on behalf of hiring organisations – can play in response.
For temp recruitment, where speed, agility and responsiveness are key, the stats can’t be ignored. Timely updates for candidates (and clients), as well as follow-through on our commitments, aren’t just good practice, they’re critical to sustaining candidate engagement and ensuring successful assignments for our temporaries and contractors.
Interestingly, salary, while important, is no longer a top priority for job seekers. Candidates now place higher value on team culture, purposeful work, and flexibility.
Indeed’s research also found that nearly two-thirds of job seekers rate job security as a top priority. This shift reflects broader economic and geopolitical concerns, highlighting a more considered, values-driven approach to work.
While Interchange Bench specialises in temporary and contract on-hire roles and not permanent placements, we understand that the stability of regular income still matters. Many of our assignments often extend well beyond their original timeframe, sometimes lasting several months. For candidates seeking security and stability, we provide regular opportunities with reputable employers, meaningful work, and the potential for ongoing engagement across multiple assignments.
Indeed’s data revealed another interesting insight. It showed significant job seeker activity outside typical business hours, particularly between midnight and 5am. For recruiters, this underlines the value of tech-enabled 24/7 communication with candidates, especially in high-volume, fast-turnaround environments. But most importantly, the message was clear: technology must enhance, not replace, human connection.
So, what do job seekers in 2025 actually want? It’s pretty straightforward. They’re looking for meaningful work, flexibility, and a sense of security (even in short-term roles) from an honest recruitment partner with timely communication who understands their goals. At Interchange Bench we’re embracing these expectations to deliver better outcomes for both candidates and clients. Thanks to the team at the RCSA for a fantastic event and to all the professionals within our industry who shared their knowledge and experiences with us.
Carla Hewitt, Consultant
Carla has a demonstrated history of working in dynamic and fast-paced environments. As a Consultant with the Interchange Bench, she manages temporary and contract roles, and provides candidate care. Prior to her current role, she worked part-time with us as a consultant while playing a key role in the daily operations of Slade Group, coordinating teams, overseeing administrative functions, managing the CRM system and supporting overall business efficiency.