What Today’s Teams Are Telling Us: 6 Takeaways From Our Latest Workplace Poll

We recently asked our network to weigh in on a few key workplace trends — everything from hiring timelines to employee priorities. The responses revealed some clear shifts in what matters most to both employers and employees. Here’s a quick breakdown of what we learned (and what it might mean for your team).

1. Aptitude Over Skill: The #1 Trait Hiring Managers Want

In a landslide, 100% of respondents said they value aptitude to learn over existing skills in a potential hire.

The takeaway? Adaptability and the ability to grow on the job are winning over even the most polished résumés. As technology and workflows evolve, so must your team — and it’s clear that leaders are prioritizing those who can learn and flex with change.

2. Skilled Communication: The Only Non-Negotiable

When asked what trait was non-negotiable, 75% of voters said skilled communication topped the list, over dedication to the job (25%).

This points to a broader truth: collaboration and clarity fuel results. In today’s hybrid workplaces, communication isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential.

3. Top Performers Are Thriving From Home

The results were clear: 75% of top performers are working remotely.

Despite initial concerns about productivity in a remote setup, this stat reinforces what many leaders are seeing — the flexibility of working from home can enhance performance when paired with the right accountability and structure.

4. Promotions Are Happening Sooner

Surprisingly, 83% of respondents said employees are promoted within 4 years, with only 17% waiting 5+ years.

This suggests companies are recognizing and rewarding impact earlier — a great sign for retention, especially among high-potential talent looking for growth.

5. Flexibility Beats Benefits

When asked what employees value most, 76% said a flexible schedule, compared to just 24% who prioritized benefits.

While traditional benefits still matter, this is a reminder that control over time has become a top-tier perk. Employers who lean into flexibility are likely to attract and retain better talent.

6. Hiring Plans Are Focused on Q2 and Q3

Responses were split between Q2 and Q3 for 2025 hiring plans, suggesting that many teams are currently in planning or interviewing phases now.

If you’re looking to hire in these windows, now’s the time to firm up your pipeline and get proactive.

Final Thoughts:

The polls confirmed something we’ve long suspected — workplace priorities are changing, and so is the way we evaluate talent. Flexibility, growth potential, and communication are leading the way. If your organization isn’t adapting to those expectations, you may find yourself behind in the race for top talent.

If you’re rethinking how you hire or retain your best team members, we’d love to help.

If you’re interested in learning more about Kalos Consulting and retaining an executive search firm for your hiring or job search needs, connect with Kalos Consulting HERE.