Still hiring like its 2019? Heres what Sales and Marketing talent really wants right now.

By Sam Horton, Senior Recruitment Consultant, Emmerson Kitney

Is your business still hiring against a job spec written in 2019? If so, you’re not alone…but it is time for a reset.

The world of sales and marketing has moved on. Fast. And what candidates value today is worlds apart from what was on the table even three years ago.

At Emmerson Kitney, we’ve seen a significant shift in what sales and marketing professionals across the Humber region are looking for in their next move.

Here’s what’s changed and how smart employers are adapting:

1. Purpose, Progression & Personal Brand
   Today’s candidates want more than a title. They want to know whyyour business exists, where they can go within it, and how they’ll be supported to grow. A clear EVP (Employer Value Proposition) and career development story are essential.
2. Flexibility is a Dealbreaker
   Hybrid expectations are here to stay. If your offer is fully office-based, you’re already on the back foot with many top-tier candidates. The flexibility to blend home and office working is now a baseline expectation, not a perk.
3. Security in Uncertain Times
   Job security, stability, and future planning matter more than ever. Businesses that can demonstrate clear leadership, strategic planning, and a track record of navigating uncertainty are more likely to win trust — and talent.
4. Your Story Needs to Resonate
   Candidates do their research. They’re assessing how your brand shows up online, how your leadership communicates, and how your employees talk about working for you. If your brand isn’t telling a compelling story — someone else’s will be.

So what should you do?

Rethink the “ideal candidate.” Instead of looking for someone to simply fill a seat, look for the person who will grow into the role, align with your direction, and help you shape the future.

It’s no longer about ticking every skill box, it’s about finding the right match for where your business is going.

Emmerson Kitney has a proven track record of helping ambitious businesses across the Humber find, attract, and retain high-performing sales and marketing professionals. Our deep sector expertise, market insights, and commitment to long-term partnerships mean we help you identify the right talent for your business, at pace.

If you’d like to talk about how we can help you recruit for capability, adaptability, and culture-fit, I’d love to hear from you. 

Get in touch directly with me, Sam Horton, to discuss your next Sales and Marketing appointment in the Humber region.

E: Sam@emmersonkitney.co.uk 

T: 01482 628808