Australian Employment Market Update

Released 3/10/24

 

As we approach the end of the year, the hiring market sees distinct shifts that both employers and job seekers should be aware of.

For Job Seekers
October and November are peak months for job opportunities, with employers actively searching for talent to fill roles before the holiday season kicks in. Waiting until January to start your job search could mean missing out on some of the best positions, as many of the top opportunities will have been filled by then.

The January Dilemma
While it might seem like a good idea to start fresh in the new year, January is actually a tough month for job seekers. Many employers are in a holding pattern, or decision-makers are still on holiday, making it a challenging time to get responses. Additionally, with fewer roles on offer, competition is fierce. By starting your job search now, you can be in a new role and settled in by the time others are just beginning their hunt.

For Employers
Employers who move quickly in these last few months of the year have a significant advantage. October and November see the highest candidate engagement, making it the perfect time to snap up quality talent. If you wait until January, you’re likely to face a limited talent pool, as many strong candidates have already committed to new roles. Additionally, candidates who are active in January can often be difficult to reach, as many are either traveling or taking extended breaks.

What Should You Do?
For job seekers: Start your search now and capitalize on the higher activity and availability of quality opportunities.

For employers: Consider bringing forward your hiring plans and connecting with candidates now, while engagement is high, to ensure you’re not left scrambling in January.

Timing is everything, and acting now puts you ahead of the curve whether you’re seeking the perfect job or the perfect hire.