The job market is entering a phase of stabilization – there are no signs of crisis, but also no indicators of rapid growth. However, insights from Hays experts and the results of our labour market survey show that in 2026, employers do not plan to halt recruitment. In fact, some anticipate an increase in hiring activity.
Hays Poland Salary Guide 2026 | Recruiting Trends
Hays Poland
Salary Guide 2026Trends in the labour market
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Recruitment trends
The share of employers planning recruitment in Poland in 2026 remains high, close to last year’s level. However, one in five organisations now cites structural changes as the reason for expected hiring. Businesses are undergoing technological transformation, adapting their strategies to current challenges. In practice, this means shifting skills requirements, which directly influence workforce decisions. In 2026, 84% of organisations plan to recruit, only 2 percentage points lower than the previous year.
The most frequent reasons for recruitment are business development (45%) and turnover (32%). However, analysis of data from the past five years shows that structural changes are becoming an increasingly common driver of hiring, reaching a record 20% of responses this year.
Organisations are in a phase of transformation driven by technology, AI development, and a demanding market, pushing them toward structural changes. As a result, some skills are losing relevance while others become critical, increasing demand for specialised experts. As many as 47% of employers expect employment levels to rise in 2026, most often by 5-10%.
Salary increase strategies
Most organisations granted salary increases last year and have similar plans for 2026. However, the scale of pay rises is changing. Analysis of recent survey responses reveals a downward trend in salary growth, with increases above 10% becoming increasingly rare.
In 2025, 80% of companies raised salaries, only 3 pp lower than the previous year. Yet, the magnitude of increases shifted significantly: just 10% of employers offered raises above 10%, while most adjustments fell within the 2.5-5% range.
The slowdown in wage growth is driven by declining inflation, stricter budget discipline and preparations for upcoming pay transparency regulations. As a result, compensation strategies and salary structures are undergoing detailed reviews, leading to greater caution in adjusting pay levels.
Discover current salary levels and pay trends in Poland
Download the Hays Salary Guide 2026 and explore current salary levels in Poland. The analysis covers more than 500 job positions across various industries, based on recruitment projects completed by Hays Poland experts in 2025.
The report includes minimum, maximum, and optimal monthly gross salaries offered to full-time employees.
Once you complete the form, you'll receive a PDF version of the report to the email address you provide.
