Decoding Global Talent 2021: What insights from 208,000 workers worldwide reveal about the future of recruitment

We’re excited to launch a new home for the Decoding Global Talent 2021 series, created with Boston Consulting Group and The Network, an alliance of over 130 leading job boards.

Based on insights from more than 208,000 workers across 197 countries, this is the world’s largest workforce study, exploring how Covid-19 has reshaped global mobility, ways of working, and employee expectations.

This sixth edition was brought forward to give employers timely, evidence-based guidance during a period of rapid change. Below you’ll find the three core reports and on-demand webinars to help you apply the findings to your hiring strategy.

Decoding Global Talent: Onsite and Virtual

The first report, Decoding Global Talent: Onsite and Virtual, reveals how the pandemic has reshaped people’s attitudes to mobility and remote work.

Willingness to relocate abroad has fallen sharply, yet there’s a growing appetite for working remotely for foreign employers – especially among digital and tech professionals. In fact, openness to international remote work is strongest in emerging economies, highlighting a major shift in how global talent now sees opportunity.

Decoding Global Ways of Working

The second report, Decoding Global Ways of Working, shows how expectations have shifted.

Nine in ten workers now want some remote work, though only a quarter prefer fully remote, making hybrid the favoured model. Flexibility matters just as much as location: only 36% favour the traditional nine-to-five, with most wanting a mix of fixed and flexible hours.

Beyond logistics, workers increasingly prioritise balance, good relationships, and alignment with company values. Download the full report to explore how these shifts are reshaping recruitment and workplace strategy.

Decoding Global Reskilling and Career Paths

In our third report, Decoding Global Reskilling & Career Paths, we uncover how workers worldwide are adapting to changing job landscapes. Many are actively upskilling or reskilling to stay relevant, especially in high-growth digital roles.

There’s increasing demand for clearer career pathways and employer support in training. For companies, this means investing in skills development and internal mobility is now a key differentiator for attracting and retaining talent.

Download the full report to explore how career expectations are evolving and what you can do to respond.

Hire the best talent, anywhere

Expand your reach beyond borders with Totaljobs Global. Access international candidates, streamline compliance, and connect with the skills your business needs.

Start hiring globally