The new rules for recruiting in Europe in 2026

The 7 key insights

Work is central for new generations

Permanent contracts are being challenged by candidates

Industry sector is the primary factor in company choice

93 %

43 %

48 %

For

believe work is a key pillar of their personal fulfillment.

of students are not looking for a permanent contract in 2026.

of students and graduates , the industry sector is the number one factor when choosing an employer — far ahead of company reputation ( 20% ).

2026: the era of augmented applications

Salary is the number one attractiveness factor

85 %

55 %

2026: the end of corporate content?

27 %

of students use AI to improve their job applications.

of students rank compensation as their top expectation for their first job.

Only

consider company videos and testimonials trustworthy when forming an opinion about an employer.

Increasingly early mobility 16 months the ideal average duration of a first job according to students.

Alumni and employee testimonials are significantly more trusted.

5

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