At RIZE we are often approached by candidates with the question “When is the best time to look for a new job?” Is there really an optimum time of year to look for a new career opportunity?
Whilst officially there may be no job-hunting season, statistically speaking at RIZE we get the biggest number of enquiries for new positions following the holiday period. In Europe this would translate into late January and September being the busiest months for new candidate applications. Elsewhere we experience a similar pattern.
Is this really that surprising? Could it be the result of a heady cocktail of sun, sand and sea? Perhaps not, as holidays’ are the perfect opportunities to reflect on life and perhaps re-evaluate where you are heading on a number of fronts, including your career trajectory.
Or perhaps it could be a case of latent demand, as the holiday period is perhaps not the most effective time to conduct your quest for a new role. Whilst recruitment agents are generally available throughout the year, the end client might have key decision makers absent – when you consider some businesses require 7 signatories to sign off new permanent headcount – this might come as no surprise. The holiday season is also not the most effective time to network and job fairs are rarely held at this time.
The good news is that the internet never sleeps and sourcing new opportunities, in many respects has never been easier.
Finding a new job, particularly a permanent one takes 3 to 6 months. If working full time it can take longer. The key is to have a comprehensive plan of action and recognize that there may be no time like the present to take the next step.
