Current professional services salary trends reveal a disconnect between employer offerings and employee expectations across the UK, US, and Middle East. Globally, salary growth is averaging 3-5% led by the green energy and technology industries, with inflation at 2.6%, “both lower than the 2024 projections of 5.4% salary growth and 3.1% inflation” (Vencon Research International: Global outlook expected salary increases for 2025).

Research shows that there has been a significant decline in salaries across the UK from 6.5% to 4%, whilst the US remains steady at 3.5% and emerging markets, such as the Middle East and Latin America, show mixed growth, averaging 5.5% (SkillWorkPro: 2025 Salary Growth Forecasts by Region)

Whilst the economic outlook isn’t the most favourable, 69% of employees told us they’ve received salary increases of 2.5-10% or more, with 17% stating increases were over 10%. Yet, in some cases these modest gains barely outpace inflation and leave many feeling undervalued.

Results from our survey confirm that pay remains the most important factor for retention and job selection, with many professionals highlighting that their compensation doesn't reflect their value.