Looking for a new job often gets pushed to the back burner until it becomes absolutely necessary. Whether it’s part of your long-term career plan, a fleeting thought, or the result of a toxic environment or lack of progression, many people delay starting their job search until they’ve reached their limit. But is there a better time to make your move? While there’s no universal “good” or “bad” time to look for a new role, recruitment activity does follow certain seasonal trends.
Job Search Trends by Quarter
Quarter 1: January – March
The new year often brings resolutions for change, but recruitment doesn’t always align with the “new year, new me” mindset. Many candidates and employers take time to recover from the holiday season, with some extending their break well into January or even February. Recruitment decisions, often requiring multiple levels of approval, can be delayed as teams catch up on work.
During this time, many resignations submitted over the holiday period start to take effect. While hiring needs are evident, the process may still stall due to preparations for the end of the financial year. These demands can slow down interviews, offer stages, and onboarding timelines, even if there’s a strong demand for talent.
Quarter 2: April – June
Boom time for hiring! With the end of the financial year behind them, firms and candidates alike shift their focus to growth. Employers are eager to fill vacant roles, strengthen teams, and plan for the future. Meanwhile, professionals often take this time to reflect on their career progression and explore new opportunities.
If you’re considering a job search, this is an excellent time to act. There’s less competition from other candidates compared to the beginning of the year, and firms are keen to finalise hires before the mid-year rush.
Quarter 3: July – September
This is the mid-year promotion season. Mid-year reviews, salary increases, and promotions dominate the agenda for many companies. For some employees, this recognition solidifies their commitment to their current roles. For others who feel overlooked, it’s often a trigger to start looking elsewhere.
The candidate pool tends to shrink during this period, as those who have been promoted are less likely to move. However, for job seekers, this is an advantage. Fewer candidates mean less competition for available roles, and firms are eager to attract fresh talent to meet their growth plans. The public practice accounting shortage further increases opportunities for those actively searching.
Quarter 4: October – December
Recruitment activity usually peaks in October and November as firms rush to secure talent before the holiday season. Employers want to start the new year strong, so they focus on filling current and future vacancies. However, as December approaches, the pace slows significantly.
The degree of slowdown varies by region. In less populated areas, firms may act quickly when good candidates emerge, regardless of the time of year. In busier regions, like Canterbury, the holiday season can cause delays in decision-making and hiring processes.
Why the Right Time for Your Job Search Depends on You
While recruitment trends provide helpful insights, the best time for your job search depends on your personal goals and readiness. Starting early allows you to explore opportunities without the pressure of an urgent deadline. Whether you’re motivated by a desire for growth, a better work environment, or new challenges, being proactive gives you an edge.
By understanding seasonal trends, you can align your job search with periods of high demand or lower competition. For instance, April through June offers a balanced mix of opportunity and competition, while October and November provide a final chance to secure a role before year-end. Conversely, quieter times like January and December can work to your advantage if you’re targeting roles in regions with ongoing hiring needs.
Ultimately – recruitment can be like a game of chess. All it takes is one talented player to generate interest, up the stakes and create a winning game. Recruitment occurs throughout the year – regardless of trends – but picking your time to activate your job search is often the crux – start sooner rather than later.
Key Takeaways
Your job search is a personal journey that benefits from strategic timing. While external factors like recruitment trends can guide your approach, your readiness and goals ultimately determine the right time to act. By aligning your search with market conditions, you’ll maximise your chances of finding a role that meets your aspirations. Don’t wait for crisis mode—start planning your next career move today!
Tyler Wren can help guide your career journey, and don’t forget about our referral bonus.
Here at Tyler Wren, we know good people know good people. That’s why we offer a referral bonus if you refer someone to Tyler Wren, with whom we secure a new role. Click here to find out more and refer a friend: Tyler Wren Refer a Friend.
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