As the workplace changes, job seekers are facing new expectations—and new ways to stand out. Whether adapting to company culture, considering flexible work, learning new technology, or strengthening transferable skills, being adaptable is becoming one of the most valuable career advantages, according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.
Adaptability Drives Employability for US Job Seekers
Job seekers recognize that success is not based on skills and experience alone. The ability to collaborate with others, adjust to workplace expectations, and respond to change is increasingly viewed as a valuable career skill.
Adapting to Today’s Workplace
- 98% of job seekers say it is important for candidates to be able to adapt to fit in a company or team culture
- 86% agree adapting to a company’s culture is now considered a core professional skill
- 67% have adapted their personality to fit a company or team culture
- 51% say adaptability is one of the personality traits companies value most
For job seekers, developing and demonstrating adaptability shows employers they are ready to contribute in a changing workplace.
Download the US Report
Adaptability Is a Key Strength for Canadian Job Seekers
In Canada, job seekers also see adaptability as an important part of career readiness. Being able to work well with different teams, adjust to company expectations, and stay flexible through workplace changes can help candidates show they are prepared for today’s evolving job market.
- 97% of job seekers say it is important for candidates to be able to adapt to fit in a company or team culture
- 84% agree adapting to a company’s culture is now considered a core professional skill
- 68% have adapted their personality to fit a company or team culture
- 60% say adaptability is one of the personality traits companies value most.
As workplace expectations continue to evolve, adaptability can help Canadian candidates position themselves as flexible, capable, and ready to succeed.
Download the Canada Report
Show Employers Your Strengths
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Discover more about current job market trends, including flexible work and AI, in the latest Job Seeker Report.
About Express Employment Professionals
At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, employing more than 11 million since its inception. For assistance with your job search, visit ExpressPros.com/Job-Seekers or ExpressPros.ca/Job-Seekers.
The Job Seeker Report survey was conducted online within the United States and Canada by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express among job seekers in the U.S. (n=1,000) and Canada (n=508), May 19 to June 8, 2026. For complete survey methodology, please contact Communications@ExpressPros.com.