Traditionally, attractive salary packages have been a go-to strategy for engaging top talent. But insights from PwC’s Future of Recruiting survey suggest a shift in priorities for some: 37% of candidates would give up to 12% of their salary for a role that provides further career development and upskilling opportunities.

This statistic reflects a broader trend we’ve observed at Pentasia. Today’s talent, especially younger generations in the iGaming space, increasingly prioritises professional growth. They want roles that challenge them, offer clear progression pathways, and help them stay ahead in an ever-evolving sector. For employers, this shift presents an opportunity—and a challenge—to rethink how they attract and retain top candidates.

Understanding the Career Development Priority

Candidates’ willingness to trade salary for growth opportunities reflects a desire for roles that align with their long-term aspirations. At Pentasia, we frequently hear from candidates who want to know:

• “What learning opportunities are available?”
• “Is there room for advancement?”
• “How will this role contribute to my career goals?”

Providing clear answers to these questions can set businesses apart during the hiring process. A strong focus on career development can be a game-changer in attracting the best talent.

However, it does require a change of mindset from one that views the recruitment process as just about filling vacancies, to one that sees it as a pivotal moment for showcasing what your company can offer beyond the paycheck.

Career Development and the Candidate Experience

Here’s how companies can leverage this to create a standout candidate experience:

1. Prioritise Development in Recruitment Conversations

Candidates are looking for roles where they can grow. Make career progression and upskilling central to your recruitment narrative. Share specific examples of employees who have advanced within your organisation or the types of learning opportunities you provide, such as certifications, mentorship programs, or exposure to innovative projects.

At Pentasia, we often advise clients to highlight their commitment to development early in the hiring process. It’s not enough to mention training in a job description—candidates want tangible evidence of how your company supports their growth.

2. Build a Human-Centred Recruitment Process

Candidates see their recruitment experience as a preview of what it’s like to work at your company. A process that includes meaningful conversations about their career goals signals that your organisation values their individual potential.

For instance, during interviews, ask candidates about the skills they want to develop or the challenges they’re eager to tackle. Demonstrating genuine interest in their aspirations can set your company apart in a crowded hiring market.

3. Invest in Training as Part of the Onboarding Process

The candidate experience doesn’t end when an offer is accepted. The onboarding and initial probationary period are also a determining factor in whether you have made a success hire. Incorporating structured training and career development into the onboarding process demonstrates your company’s commitment to employee growth from day one. It sets the tone for a positive, long-term relationship with your new hire while equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their role.

At Pentasia, we encourage our clients to view onboarding not just as an administrative step but as the start of a meaningful journey. By investing in training from day one, you can turn a great hire into a long-term asset for your organisation, improving retention rates and maximising the return on your recruitment investment by reducing the cost per hire over time.

Beyond Recruitment: Retaining Talent Through Development

While career development is a powerful tool for attracting candidates, its impact doesn’t stop there. Offering meaningful opportunities to learn and advance is key to retaining top talent long-term. Companies that invest in their employees’ growth tend to enjoy higher engagement, lower turnover, and a stronger reputation in the talent market.

For candidates, roles that offer development pathways are more than jobs—they’re opportunities to build the careers they envision. For employers, investing in these pathways isn’t just about meeting candidates’ expectations; it’s about future-proofing the organisation. As skills evolve and industry demands change, businesses that invest in upskilling their workforce will be best positioned to adapt and thrive.

In a world where 37% of candidates would forgo part of their salary for growth, the message is clear: development matters. Employers who embrace this shift and integrate career growth into their talent strategies will not only attract top-tier talent but also retain a workforce that’s motivated, skilled, and ready to take on the future.

At Pentasia, we help businesses align their human capital strategies with their business goals and the talent they need to achieve those goals. If you’re looking to attract and retain exceptional talent, let’s discuss how we can support your goals.

Contact us today.