As the season of fall foliage and pumpkin spice lattes approaches, so does the idea of a “September surge” in the job market. It is often believed that more job postings become available after Labor Day, signaling the end of a summer slowdown as recruiters and hiring managers return from vacation. However, career experts caution that there is no hard data to support this theory. In fact, on average, the number of job openings in the U.S. tends to fall by an average of 1.4% between August and September, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Similarly, the number of hires made in September tends to decrease by around 6.0% on average. Despite this, job experts suggest that the fall season may still be a good time to search for job opportunities.
According to Julia Pollak, the chief economist at ZipRecruiter, there is a seasonal trend in job seeker behavior, with a modest decline in the number of job applications submitted in September. For example, application volumes on ZipRecruiter fell by 8.3% between August and September in 2022, and by 12.1% in the previous year. This decrease in competition could benefit individuals who are actively job hunting, as they may see their chances of securing a job improve. It is important to note that job-seeking activity tends to peak in January, with a 20% increase in job applications started on Glassdoor compared to a typical month from 2017 to 2020.
To increase your chances of landing the job you desire, experts recommend adopting strategic approaches to your job search. Erin McGoff, a career educator with a vast social media following, advises job seekers to focus on making direct connections with people in companies of interest rather than solely applying to hundreds of jobs online. Networking and leveraging word-of-mouth referrals can give you a competitive edge in a crowded job market. Additionally, Aaron Terrazas, the chief economist at Glassdoor, emphasizes the importance of understanding company culture, speaking the “company language,” and researching what interviewers are seeking to stand out as a candidate for larger companies.
Submitting tailored applications is crucial in capturing the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. Generic, untailored resumes are likely to be discarded quickly, leading to missed opportunities. Erin McGoff stresses the importance of customizing each application to match the specific requirements of the job and the company. To streamline the application process, it is advisable to use a rating system to prioritize job opportunities based on your level of interest. By allocating more time and effort to applications for roles that excite you, you can increase your chances of success.
A Balanced Job Search Strategy
A successful job search strategy, regardless of the time of year, involves a combination of online applications, networking, and seeking guidance from career coaches or recruiters. It is important to maintain a balanced approach, as solely relying on one method, such as applying online, may limit your chances of success. Cara Heilmann, president of the International Association of Career Coaches, likens the job search process to a three-legged stool, emphasizing the need for a well-rounded strategy. Moving swiftly and efficiently in your job search is key, as time is of the essence, especially during the fall season which is bookended by major holidays.
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