Expectations are rising fast and the gap between what organisations offer and what candidates and employees actually want is becoming increasingly clear. Data from over 5,000 respondents in the Nordic HR Report 2026 shows that this gap plays a crucial role in whether people choose or reject an employer.
Where should you focus your efforts to meet the expectations that determine whether the right talent chooses you – and chooses to stay?
Talentech›The talent race in 2026: Meeting candidate and employee expectations
Many organizations lack a clear understanding of what candidates and employees actually expect throughout the employee journey. When processes are fragmented, progress is slow, and communication is inconsistent, gaps begin to form — leading to candidate drop-off during recruitment and lower engagement internally. At the same time, it becomes difficult for leaders to know where to prioritise time and resources to create the greatest impact.
Why organisations fall short in the employee journey
Organisations lack insight into what candidates and employees actually expect
Without clear data, many decisions are based on assumptions – and processes end up misaligned with how people actually feel and experience things.
Expectations aren't met, leading to drop-off and turnover
Candidates withdraw when processes are slow or unclear. Employees leave when development, clarity, and communication fall short.
Leaders struggle to prioritize improvements without the right insights
Without understanding what matters most in recruitment, onboarding, and development, it becomes difficult to know where to invest time and resources.
Start with data & insights
DOWNLOAD THE 2026 HR REPORT →
DOWNLOAD THE 2026 HR REPORT →
The 2026 HR Report
The HR Report offers insights into what over 5000 employees and candidates across the Nordics expect – from recruitment and onboarding to development and future career growth.
Here are some highlights from this year’s survey:
54% say that a lack of feedback is the most frustrating part of the recruitment process
60% apply for a job because the company seems like a great place to work
47% say learning and development is the benefit they value most
84% are positive or neutral about companies using AI in the recruitment process
41% expect regular check-ins between signing the contract and starting the job
To meet the expectations shaping the labour market in 2026, companies must move away from fragmented processes and assumptions – and towards a more holistic, data-driven, and connected employee journey. That means faster and clearer recruitment processes, more engaging and structured onboarding, and better insight into what employees need to thrive and grow.
Recruitment that meets candidate expectations
See what candidates actually expect – and deliver on it.
Fast responses, clear communication, and professional processes are no longer “nice to have.” A modern solution enables you to:
reduce manual steps and speed up the process
ensure consistent communication and a better experience for every candidate
use secure AI tools for screening and evaluation, freeing up more time for quality
The result: fewer drop-offs and better conversion from application to signed hire.
Onboarding that builds clarity, belonging, and motivation
The first weeks are critical for engagement and retention.
A modern onboarding experience provides:
a clear and consistent plan that applies to everyone
automated tasks to ensure progress
structure that gives new employees confidence and a sense of ownership
The result: faster time-to-productivity and stronger long-term satisfaction.
Development and HR processes that build loyalty
Employees expect opportunities to grow – and leaders need insight to set the right priorities.
An integrated solution provides:
better overview of skills, roles, and development needs
digital development conversations and ongoing follow-up
insight into what truly drives satisfaction and engagement
The result: stronger development, better decisions, and lower turnover.
What sets successful organizations apart?
Successful organisations are those that truly understand what people expect and build connected, modern processes that meet those expectations across recruitment, onboarding, and development.
Want to see how Talentech’s all-in-one platform can help you create HR and recruitment processes that actually deliver on expectations?
