Robert Walters Salary Survey 2025: 82% of Vietnamese Firms to Raise Salaries

Robert Walters, the world's most trusted talent solutions business, has released its highly anticipated Salary Survey for 2025, providing valuable insights into the evolving desires of employees and forecasting key developments in the Vietnamese job market. The report highlights emerging trends and offers strategic recommendations for businesses looking to attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive labor market.

Impact of Vietnam's economy on the job market in 2025

In 2024, Vietnam’s economic outlook continues to shine, bolstered by significant gains across key indicators. GDP growth accelerated to 6.4% year-on-year in the first half of 2024, a marked improvement from 5% in 2023. This robust expansion was largely driven by the manufacturing sector, which surged from 3.6% in 2023 to 8.8% in H1 2024, signaling strong industrial recovery. Supporting this momentum, the Industrial Production Index (IPI) climbed 13.3% year-on-year by July, while the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) remained steady at 54.7 in both June and July, reflecting a sharp rise in new orders and overall manufacturing activity.

Despite these promising economic signals, both employers and employees are expected to remain cautious and risk-averse in 2025. The lingering uncertainty reflects the complex global economic environment and the need for measured decision-making in navigating evolving opportunities and challenges.

Employees’ sentiments and priorities 

The Salary Survey 2025 by Robert Walters provides a comprehensive view of employee sentiments in Vietnam, highlighting their aspirations and motivations as the labor market continues to evolve. According to the survey, 73% of employees express optimism about their career prospects, reflecting a growing confidence in the availability of opportunities. Salary and benefits remain the most critical drivers of employee satisfaction. The survey reveals that 46% of respondents place high importance on competitive compensation packages, while 77% emphasise the significance of bonus schemes in determining their job satisfaction. These findings suggest that financial stability and recognition play a central role in retaining and attracting talent, particularly in a competitive market where employers vie for the best candidates. 

Beyond financial incentives, employees also value the intangibles of workplace culture. Inspiring colleagues and a supportive working environment emerged as crucial motivators for half of the surveyed workforce. Coupled with this, opportunities for personal and professional growth - such as training programs, flexible working hours, and extended health insurance - are increasingly viewed as essential components of an attractive employment package. 

Interestingly, the survey also highlights a pronounced preference among employees for foreign employers, with an overwhelming 98% expressing interest in working for international companies. The reasons are clear: better pay scales, structured career development paths, and the opportunity to work in globally aligned professional settings make foreign organisations highly desirable destinations for Vietnamese talent. 

Another noteworthy trend is the rise of "boomerang employees" - individuals who consider rejoining their former employers. This dynamic presents a unique opportunity for businesses to harness the value of familiarity and continuity. Mr. Pham Tuan Phuc, Country Manager of Robert Walters Vietnam shared: “By offering returning employee’s roles with greater responsibilities or creating dedicated alumni programs, companies can maintain strong relationships with their past talent pools, leveraging their experience and loyalty for mutual growth.” 

Employers’ strategies evolve amid talent market dynamics

With a competitive landscape and shifting employee priorities, companies are adapting their approaches to attract and retain top talent effectively. The Robert Walters Salary Survey 2025 sheds light on key trends shaping employer strategies in Vietnam’s evolving job market. One prominent trend is the widespread intention among employers to offer salary increases, with 82% of surveyed companies planning raises in 2025.

Beyond salary adjustments, employers are also focusing heavily on enhancing their talent attraction strategies. Many organisations are investing in competitive bonus schemes (76%) and robust employee training and development programs (67%). These initiatives not only serve to draw in potential hires but also help build a skilled, engaged, and loyal workforce.

However, attracting talent is just one piece of the puzzle; retaining that talent presents a persistent challenge. The survey highlights high competition for talent and difficulty offering competitive pay and benefits (59%) as ongoing issues for many employers.

A promising approach lies in hiring candidates based on their potential rather than solely on existing expertise. By focusing on long-term talent nurturing, companies can foster a workforce that grows and evolves alongside the organisation. This approach aligns with the broader trend of employers adjusting their benefits packages and workplace policies to meet employee expectations, creating a mutually beneficial and sustainable environment. 

High-demand industries in 2025

In 2025, companies are expected to ramp up hiring in HR, legal, and finance to support business expansion and strategic growth, alongside roles in growth-oriented departments such as sales, marketing, and business development. Salary increments across all sectors are projected to remain steady at 15–25%.

Human Resources: The demand for professionals continues to rise, with companies prioritising those skilled in stakeholder management and business partnerships. HR Business Partners with strategic and communication expertise are expected to see notable salary increments. 

Legal: Regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals and FMCG are driving demand for specialists, particularly in M&A and government affairs roles.

Accounting & Finance: These roles are in high demand as companies prioritise compliance, transparency, and digital transformation. Professionals with expertise in digital tools, risk management, and analytics are expected to command competitive salaries. 

Technology: The sector is set to grow especially for senior roles in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing sector. 

Consumer and Healthcare Industries: The two are benefiting from recovering consumer demand, driving steady hiring and growth opportunities. 

Supply Chain: Strategic thinking and data analytics skills are increasingly valued in logistics and procurement, as businesses focus on optimising operations.

Recommendations for recruitment strategy in 2025

To succeed in the competitive talent landscape of 2025, companies must adopt a holistic human resource strategy. Mr. Phuc shared: “Compensation and benefits remain pivotal in attracting and retaining talent. Businesses must ensure their packages are competitive with industry standards while also recognizing employee achievements through appreciation programs, such as hosting recognition events like annual awards or peer-to-peer recognition initiatives, or offering additional perks like extra paid time off. These gestures, which don’t always need to be monetary, go a long way in boosting morale and fostering loyalty. Furthermore, providing growth opportunities - be it through training, mentorship, or clear career progression pathways - is key to keeping employees engaged and committed for the long term.” 

Creating a positive and inclusive company culture is equally essential. A workplace that promotes work-life balance, teamwork, and collaboration appeals to modern employees. Flexible and remote work arrangements are particularly attractive, allowing businesses to balance productivity with employee flexibility. 

In addition, sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives remain central to building strong employer brands. Companies should highlight their values and showcase positive employee experiences through social media, career websites, and industry events to stand out in the talent market.

See the Salary Survey 2025 by Robert Walters at:

https://www.robertwalters.com.vn/our-services/salary-survey.html

Van Luong - Vietnam Business Forum