CIPD report hints at hiring trends and best bets for pitches and jobs going into 2026
The UK job market is showing cautious stability this autumn, creating targeted opportunities for freelancers and specialist contractors.
According to the CIPD Labour Market Outlook – Autumn 2025 report, overall employer confidence remains subdued. However, for those with the right skills, specific areas of the private sector could offer a solid pipeline of work for the next three months.
The report, based on a survey of over 2,000 employers, indicates that stability is the new watchword, meaning freelancers must sharpen their focus and pitch high-value, niche expertise to businesses that are actively hiring.
The UK job market
The headline figure, known as the net employment balance (the difference between employers planning to increase and decrease staff), is +9. While stable, this is one of the lowest levels recorded outside of the pandemic.
This caution is highly dependent on the sector:
Public sector retreat
Employment intentions in the public sector have fallen significantly to -8. This negative balance signals more public sector employers expect staff numbers to decrease rather than increase. Freelancers should probably avoid pitching non-essential services here until here is another pick-up.
Private sector resilience
The private sector outlook is far better, remaining stable with a positive balance of +14. This confirms that expansion and project work is still happening, making private businesses your primary target.
The CIPD statistics reveal where to focus your effort: 34% of large private sector organisations expect to increase staff levels in the next three months. This compares to just 22% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and 19% of public sector employers (Source: Labour Market Outlook Autumn 2025, CIPD).
Where to pitch now
For UK freelancers and contractors looking to secure work over the next three months, the data hints at a strategy:
- Target large private companies with a focus on specific, strategic problem-solving
The report clearly identifies that large private organisations are the most confident hirers. They possess the budget and internal resource capacity to engage high-cost external contractors for key projects.
This suggests you should pitch your services directly to decision-makers (e.g., Directors, Heads of Department) at FTSE 100 or similarly sized private firms.
What should you pitch to stand out?
- Pitch efficiency and productivity improvements
As employment costs rise, the CIPD notes that 37% of employers are planning to improve efficiency and raise productivity.
Therefore, position yourself as the solution to these internal cost pressures. If you are an experienced Project Manager, Business Analyst, or Process Consultant, frame your pitch around “how” you will save the company money or streamline operations in the immediate future.
Include in your pitch, portfolio and CV the soft behavioural skills hiring companies want now, as highlighted in this report.
The AI opportunity: yes, there is one
The increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the demand for contract skills. The report states that 76% of UK organisations now use AI tools. While many employers expect AI to have no impact on headcount, a significant 17% anticipate that AI will reduce their workforce over the next 12 months.
This reduction is expected most strongly in routine tasks performed by “clerical, junior managerial, professional and administrator roles.”
This trend is not a threat to the specialist contractor; it is an opportunity. Companies are looking for high-level expertise to manage the transition to an AI-driven environment.
Position your AI skills into new roles
AI Implementation Consultant: 21% of employers plan to introduce or increase automation. Contractors who can advise on which AI tools to buy, integrate them correctly, and train existing staff will be in high demand.
Specialist Skills Coach: Focus on upskilling management teams to work with AI, rather than competing against it.
High-Level Strategic Roles: The report suggests high-value, strategic professional roles are less likely to be automated immediately. Keep your focus on senior-level consultancy, not junior support.
Pitching strategy
The next three months require contractors to be highly selective. Put the public sector pitches on the back burner for now if you are getting nowhere. Instead, capitalise on the demand from large private businesses that need help mastering efficiency and implementing AI business strategies, products and services.
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