In 2019, only 6% of Americans worked from home — a number that soared to 45% early in the pandemic. People everywhere went from working side-by-side to collaborating solely online in a matter of weeks.

More than just where we work, there’s no question that this distance economy has impacted how we work. It’s even changed what people want from work.

Feelings of social isolation and burnout drove candidates to re-prioritize what’s important to them. And now they’re demanding the very thing they’ve been missing the most — genuine connections and conversations around the things that matter. The distance economy generated a need to communicate differently.

63% of candidates say most employers don’t effectively communicate

Candidates want regular feedback and communication during the interview process. In remote hiring, where human connection is lacking, this is more important than ever.  

84% of candidates want hiring process transparency before they apply 

Emerging from a period of uncertainty, candidates want to see full transparency from companies, including what to expect with salaries, benefits, job responsibilities, and work arrangements.

37% of people experience lower trust in leadership     

Remote work created feelings of isolation for many. Connection builds trust, and it’s important to start building that connection as early as the interview stage. The distance economy created a desire for a more personally fulfilling work experience.

33% of recruiters say more candidates ask about their DEI initiatives than before the pandemic

Candidates want to be a part of an equitable workplace that demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. And they’re prepared to pass up job offers from companies that don’t.

76% of millennials want to know about a company’s social and environmental stance before accepting a job       

Environmental and social commitment matters to many candidates, especially the largest segment of today’s workforce — millennials.

More than one in three candidates would take a pay cut for learning opportunities

The uncertainty of the recent economic crisis accelerated the need for upskilling, especially in technology. Candidates want employers who can maximize their potential and set them up for a better tomorrow. The distance economy amplified the need to feel appreciated and prioritized.

75% of people say their mental health is now a top priority

Remote work took a major toll on personal well-being. Now, candidates are looking for employers that place as much value on mental health as they do.

Flexibility is the fastest-growing priority for job seekers right now. Candidates want continued flexibility to gain better work-life balance and to prioritize their mental and physical health.

Only 17% of remote employees want to return to the office full-time

Two years into the pandemic, people have figured out how to work from home. Now, they’re looking for companies that give them the flexibility to work in a way that suits their life.

Trust, transparency, flexibility. If you’re noticing a pattern in the data being reported, you’re not alone. Now more than ever before people want genuine connection. For hiring leaders, that means developing positive candidate relationships. 

Elevate Your Recruitment Process Today

If you want to stand out among other companies in the distance economy, you need recruitment tech that truly prioritizes candidates. Look no further than GoodTime Hire.

GoodTime Hire harnesses Candidate Relationship Intelligence to automate coordination, build relationships during interviews, and provide actionable insights to continuously improve your hiring process.


Learn more about how Hire can take your recruitment process to the next level.

About the Author

Rachel Heller

Rachel is passionate about creating and distributing powerful, engaging, and expert-vetted content. As the former Content Specialist at GoodTime, she covered the latest trends, insights, and expert recommendations for all things talent acquisition and recruiting.