Jobseekers are looking for more than good pay and quick career progression, according to recruiting company Hays Insurance.

Director Jane McNeill says candidates have become more selective about roles and organisations they will consider.

Candidates are looking for jobs offering a good work/life balance, project or workload security, a stable team, opportunities for training and reputable organisations.

“To judge these factors, they are requesting more detailed information about companies and projects before committing to interviews and they also expect to be well informed by hiring managers during interviews,” she said.

Hays attributes the change to rising workloads, lack of career development, the instability of some organisations and lack of appropriate recognition since the global financial crisis.

The recruiter says employers now want to secure long-term employees and hesitate to consider candidates who have changed jobs frequently, further motivating jobseekers to look for long-term positions.