Learn how to optimise your CV for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to increase your chances of landing an interview in...
READ MORE
When Is The Best Time Of Year To Apply For A New Job?
Reading Time: 9 minutes
Navigating the complex maze of job searching, we’ve all heard a range of advice. “There’s no harm in trying during the holidays!” or “Summer’s quiet; best wait for autumn.” But how much of this is rooted in truth, and how much is merely myth?
I have spent more than 10 years’ recruiting for companies. I have experienced the ebb and flow of job vacancies and job offers, and unearthed a key component many overlook – the pivotal role of timing.
While skills, experiences, and a stellar CV undeniably hold immense value, aligning your job search with the rhythms of the hiring calendar can be the game-changer. Let’s demystify the optimal times to hit ‘send’ on that application and the periods it might be wise to hold off just a tad longer.
Table of Contents
Summer (June, July, and August)
As most of us think of warm evenings, BBQs, and well-deserved breaks, there’s another side to this season worth contemplating – the job market. Here’s what the sunlit months hold for the ambitious job-seeker:
Benefits
- A Breath of Fresh Air: Many companies tend to embrace a more relaxed ambience during the summer months. The result? The rigid, formal interviews you might be used to can occasionally shift into more laid-back conversations, perhaps even a chat over a coffee in the company’s garden area or a virtual meet with a backdrop of sun-soaked home offices.
- The Quiet Advantage: While most professionals are lounging on sun loungers, there’s a potential edge for the go-getters. With fewer applicants tossing their hats into the ring, you might find that your application gets a touch more attention than usual.
Disadvantages
- The Waiting Game: Here’s the flipside of the relaxed summer vibes – the pace of decision-making can often take a hit. With employees out of the office, enjoying their summer breaks, feedback loops might be slower.
- Absent Decision-Makers: Ever got to the final round of interviews only to be told there’ll be a small delay? It’s not uncommon in summer. Senior-level managers, those pivotal to your next career move, might be recharging their batteries, causing slight pauses in the hiring process.
So, should you press pause on your job hunt during summer? Not necessarily. While there are certain challenges, for the prepared and proactive professional, the summer months can sometimes reveal unexpected opportunities.
Autumn (September, October, and November):
As the leaves start to turn and we swap our sandals for more sensible shoes, there’s a palpable shift in the air. Autumn, with its renewed energy and sense of purpose, brings about a unique backdrop for the job-seeking fraternity. But what’s brewing beneath the surface?
Benefits
- A New Dawn: Autumn is often seen as a second “new year” in the corporate world. With summer breaks behind them and an eye on year-end goals, companies eagerly kick off new projects and endeavours. This surge often translates to increased hiring, as teams look to onboard talent to drive these initiatives forward.
- Swift Decision Trees: With the return from summer holidays, decision-makers are usually present and refreshed. This can mean quicker feedback, more streamlined interview processes, and faster decisions about your application.
Disadvantages
- The Race Begins: You’re not the only one who’s noted the perks of the autumn job market. With many professionals returning from breaks with renewed aspirations, the market can get slightly crowded. Your CV will need to shine brighter to catch an employer’s eye amidst the influx of eager applicants.
The allure of autumn for job seekers is unmistakable. While competition can be fierce, the opportunities are bountiful, making it a prime time for those ready with a polished CV and a clear strategy. Autumn beckons the prepared – it’s the season of change, after all. Are you ready to turn over a new leaf in your career?
With the right skills highlighted in your CV, you can tell a story of leadership that is as impressive as it is authentic.
Winter (December, January, and February):
When the first frost appears and festive lights brighten the streets, the corporate world, too, undergoes its transformation. Winter, with its blend of year-end reflections and new-year resolutions, has its own tale to tell in the job market’s saga. Let’s unwrap what this chilly season holds.
Benefits
- Budgets Reborn: The advent of a new year often means fresh budgets. Companies evaluate their needs, and with an injection of new fiscal plans, the hiring gates frequently swing open. Roles that might’ve been on hold or newly conceived positions suddenly emerge, waiting for the right candidates to fill them.
- New Year, New You?: January and February ride on the coattails of the universal sentiment of change. Many professionals act on their year-end reflections, leading them to seek new roles. For companies, this translates into a keenness to harness the energy of the season and onboard talent who are raring to go.
Disadvantages
- A Silent December: The festive mood, wonderful as it is, can sometimes dampen the speed of the hiring process. Many are out celebrating the holidays, leading to a slight hiring lull. Patience, thus, becomes a virtue for job-seekers during this month.
Winter, then, is a season of contrasts. December might call for patience and persistence, but come January and February, the opportunities abound. As the cold outside intensifies, could this be the season to ignite a new fire in your career journey? Warm up those applications and brace yourself for the potential opportunities ahead.
Spring (March, April, and May)
The herald of new beginnings, spring is synonymous with rebirth and rejuvenation. As daffodils push through thawed soil and days grow longer, there’s a refreshing dynamism mirrored in the professional realm. Spring’s lively backdrop offers its own cues for those ‘on the job’ hunt, but how does one harness this season’s potential?
Benefits
- Riding the Momentum: The vivacity of winter’s hiring spree often cascades into the spring months. Companies, having set their yearly goals, are in the execution phase. This propels a continued demand for talent, especially those who can bring a fresh perspective and new energy.
- Before the Lull: Recognising that summer might usher in a slowdown, many companies are keen to wrap up their hiring processes. This could mean quicker turnaround times and decisions made with a tad more urgency.
Disadvantages
- The Approaching Pause: As May rolls around, there’s a sense of the impending summer slowdown. While not a staunch disadvantage, it’s something to bear in mind. If you’re considering a move, earlier in the spring might be more fruitful than later.
Spring, in essence, is the season of action. It’s the time to shake off winter’s contemplation and make those career moves you’ve been considering. While the season is rife with opportunities, a proactive approach will serve you best. After all, in a season known for its fleeting beauty, it’s the early bird that catches the worm – or in this case, lands the dream job. Are you poised to spring into action?
Steps to Take Now for a Successful Job Hunt
Timing, as we’ve explored, plays a pivotal role in the job search process. However, being prepared when the opportune moment strikes is equally, if not more, critical. Waiting for September’s hiring wave or January’s fresh starts won’t suffice unless you’re fully equipped to seize them. Here’s a strategic guide to ensure you’re not just waiting for the right time but are genuinely ready to jump in when it arrives:
- Update Your CV:
- Reflect on the Past: Start by jotting down key achievements, projects completed, or challenges overcome in the past year. Has your role evolved? Ensure your CV mirrors this growth.
- Skills and Competencies: In the ever-evolving professional landscape, upskilling is crucial. Whether you’ve picked up digital proficiencies, mastered a new tool, or delved into leadership training, these are valuable inclusions to your CV.
- Revamp Your LinkedIn Profile:
- Consistency is Key: Ensure your LinkedIn mirrors your CV. Inconsistencies can raise eyebrows.
- Engage, Don’t Just Exist: Join discussions, share insightful articles, or pen your own posts. Active participation enhances visibility, reminding your network (and potential recruiters) of your expertise and passion.
- Craft a Cover Letter Template:
- The Personal Touch: While the template will provide structure, it’s vital to tailor it for each application. What draws you to the company? How do you resonate with their mission? A touch of personalisation can set your application apart.
- Value Proposition: Clearly elucidate what you bring to the table. Remember, it’s a two-way street: as much as you want the role, the company needs to see the value in bringing you onboard.
- Forge a Job Search Strategy:
- Clarity First: Define what you’re looking for. Is it a step up the career ladder, a shift into a new industry, or perhaps a role that offers better work-life balance?
- Research and Network: Dive into company reviews, tap into your network for insights, and familiarise yourself with industry trends. Knowledge, as they say, is power.
- Stay Organised: Keep track of applications sent, responses received, and follow-up actions. A simple spreadsheet can be a game-changer in ensuring you don’t miss potential opportunities.
While timing holds significance, readiness amplifies its impact. Consider this your clarion call – if a change is on the horizon, now is the time to prepare. Let the coming months find you not only eager but also impeccably poised to embark on the next chapter of your professional journey. After all, fortune, as they say, favours the prepared mind. Are you ready to set the wheels in motion.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the professional landscape resembles the rhythm of the seasons. Each period brings with it a unique cadence, opportunities interwoven with challenges, and a need to adjust our approach accordingly. But as we’ve journeyed through the intricacies of the job market’s calendar, one truism stands out: being prepared and proactive is paramount.
- Harnessing Timing: September to October and January to February are akin to high tide in the job-seeking ocean. Riding these waves could give you a distinct advantage, but like any seasoned surfer will attest, it’s not just about the wave – it’s about being ready for it.
- The Power of Preparedness: Consider the preparatory steps as your training regime. With a polished CV, a dynamic LinkedIn profile, a tailored cover letter, and a clear strategy, you’re not just waiting for the right wave; you’re geared up to ride it with finesse.
When is the best time to apply for a new job?
The answer is always NOW!
Let’s go!
CAREER REFRESHER - £597
Refresh, reset, and reboot your career with my 6-week Career Refresh Programme.
Designed for ambitious professionals who are early to mid-career that want to advance their careers. Whether you are stuck in a stagnant role, unable to get a promotion or negotiate a better salary, we show you how to take control of your career.
Let's Work Together And Optimise Your Career
I have spent the last 10 years supporting companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies to find and the best talent around the world.
During this time, I have:
Scanned and reviewed more than 26000 CVs.
Conducted over 7000 interviews.
Secured new jobs and promotions in 20 countries across 3 continents.
For the past 5 years I have been developing best practices and solutions to help good people have great careers and have developed 3 Career Coaching Programmes suitable for all professionals.
Are you interested in working with me?
Best of luck,
Dave Crumby
Your Career Optimiser | Certified Leadership and Management Consultant
Winner of Career Development Specialists of The Year 2023
Winner of Most Supportive Career Branding Service 2022
MORE INSIGHTS TO OPTIMISE YOUR CAREER
Meet the UK's top CV writers, dedicated professionals who focus on presenting your skills and experiences in a way that...
READ MORE
Unlock the secrets to a successful job search in 2024 with our guide on crafting an AI-optimised LinkedIn profile. Learn...
READ MORE
Discover how recruiters search for candidates on LinkedIn with insights from a seasoned recruitment expert. Learn key strategies for optimizing...
READ MORE