In Ireland’s 2025 hiring market, keeping great people starts long before Day 1. Retention isn’t just about what happens once someone joins — it’s about making sure you’re attracting the right candidates, setting clear expectations, and creating the right impression from the very first interaction.
High turnover often stems from mismatched hires and poor candidate experience. By focusing on retention early — during attraction, hiring, and onboarding — employers can save time, money, and momentum.
This quick guide outlines 5 proven strategies Irish employers are using right now to attract the right people and give them the confidence to stay.
Step 1: Get the Role Right from the Start
- Define responsibilities and outcomes clearly
- Be transparent about must-have vs nice-to-have skills
- Highlight culture and progression opportunities in the job ad
- Tip: Candidates who know what they’re signing up for are far more likely to stay.
Step 2: Make a Strong First Impression
- Streamline your application and interview process
- Communicate regularly and clearly with candidates
- Showcase your company values during interviews
- Tip: Candidates decide if they want to work for you based on the process, not just the offer.
Step 3: Show the Future Early
- Talk about career paths during the recruitment stage
- Share examples of internal mobility and promotions
- Be clear about learning and development opportunities
- Tip: Candidates who see growth potential from the start are twice as likely to stay long-term.
Step 4: Align Offers With Expectations
- Move quickly once you find the right candidate
- Ensure your package reflects market benchmarks
- Highlight flexibility and non-financial benefits clearly
- Tip: Offers that match both skills and lifestyle priorities have higher acceptance and retention.
Step 5: Lay the Groundwork for Day One
- Send pre-start info and a warm welcome message
- Connect them with a buddy or mentor before they start
- Have a clear induction and training plan for their first 4 weeks
- Tip: Confidence before day one = stronger loyalty after day one.
Retention begins at attraction. By defining roles clearly, making a strong impression during the hiring process, and showing candidates their future before they start, employers in Ireland are building teams that stay.
👉 Want tailored advice on retention through smarter hiring? Speak with ICE Group today at 091 475 100.
