A new HR Trends Report from McLean & Company uncovers key priorities reshaping HR strategies in 2025. Leadership development and employee retention have surged to the forefront, signaling a shift in how organizations are navigating workforce challenges and future-proofing their operations.
The research, which draws on insights from over 779 HR professionals globally, emphasizes that building internal talent pipelines and controlling labor costs are pivotal as businesses face economic pressures and evolving employee expectations.
Leadership Development Becomes a Top Priority
For the first time in years, leadership development outranks recruitment as the most pressing HR focus. Effective leadership cultivation is directly linked to financial growth and strategic success, with companies excelling in this area being nearly twice as likely to achieve their objectives.
Will Howard, Practice Lead at McLean & Company, noted, “HR leaders in 2025 have the unique opportunity to redefine their impact. Leadership development isn’t just a trend, it’s a critical strategy for long-term growth.”
Retention Over Recruitment
Employee retention now outranks recruitment, highlighting the importance of strengthening internal talent pools. The report reveals that only 23% of organizations have a formal employee listening strategy, a missed opportunity that could significantly improve retention rates.
The Role of AI in Enhancing Employee Experience
The report also underscores the growing impact of AI on improving the employee experience, from recruitment to learning and development. However, only 42% of HR teams have adopted AI, showing room for innovation in HR’s tech capabilities.
While recruitment remains essential, its drop in priority suggests a strategic pivot toward cost optimization and internal growth. Pay transparency is identified as a key factor, boosting recruitment effectiveness by 18% in organizations adopting transparent policies.
What This Means for HR Leaders
The 2025 HR agenda is clear- HR leaders must focus on leadership pipelines, retention strategies, and tech adoption. These shifts will define their role as strategic partners in shaping organizational success.
Discover actionable strategies and insights in the full report. Download it now or join McLean & Company’s exclusive CHRO panel on February 13, 2025, to explore these trends further.
Let us know your thoughts on these emerging priorities! Follow YourTechHR for more insights on shaping the future of work.
