Sales professionals with consultative and tech-driven expertise remain in demand. This update outlines salary ranges, hiring trends, and the sectors investing most in sales talent.

Sales Hiring Trends to Look For in H2 2025

It has been a challenging 6 months in sales recruitment with a lot of uncertainty in global markets, making candidates more risk-averse about changing roles.

Less candidates on the move is leading to salary inflation

With so much uncertainty in global and local markets, candidates are understandably more risk-averse, so attrition in Sales is very low.  When you combine low attrition with low unemployment, it means salaries are going up with 15-20% premiums being sought by candidates.  This can be frustrating for companies in a time when all costs are rising.

Growth in Tech & SAAS startups has been slower than anticipated 

While the Irish tech and SAAS startup scene is navigating some expected growing pains, including the drive to secure funding and manage operational costs, the underlying strength and innovative spirit of the ecosystem remain. The favourable business environment and supportive government initiatives continue to make Ireland an attractive hub for new ventures. Notably, Irish startups doing well in AI innovation which is an area to monitor.

Candidates are moving back to more traditional sectors 

In H1 2025 we observed a notable increase in candidates applying to the more traditional established sectors.   This is likely due to a combination of less opportunities in the tech sector, coupled with traditional sectors offering a sense of stability during current uncertainty.  More predictable earnings and established career paths are also attractive.  It's worth noting that "traditional" industries are actively undergoing digital transformation, adopting new technologies and becoming more attractive.