While it can be argued there is never a bad time to look for a job, especially if you are out of work, there are certain times of the year that are less productive than others.
In a previous blog post, we looked at the best time of the year to look for a job. In this post, we will look at the opposite – the worst time of the year for job searching.
There is a consensus for the two times of the year that tend to be slower and more difficult times of the year to search for a job. They are:
The Summer Months
It’s not surprising the summer months (June, July, August) are slow for job searching. People are on vacation and frequently out of the office, and there are less motivation and urgency to hire. Most companies do their hiring during the first part of the year when they have a new budget and strategic direction. When a company is hiring during the summer, it’s usually for internship positions.
The hiring process during the summer also tends to take longer. With people out of the office and away, it can be more difficult for hiring managers to get the proper sign-off, to get the go-ahead to hire, and to schedule interviews.
While there is no harm in applying, companies only tend to hire when they have a pressing need. Use the summer to get organized, perfect your resume, and make connections with hiring managers and recruiters.
The End of the Year
The end of the year (November, December) is also a slower hiring time for many of the same reasons as the summer. Many people plan winter vacations and are looking forward to the holiday season. Many companies refrain from hiring to ensure they come in on budget for year-end. While you may get a callback or some interest, many hiring managers spend this time lining up candidates for the new year.
While summer and the end of the year tend to be slower times to look for a job, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. There is never a bad time to look, especially if you are out of work. These times simply tend to have fewer opportunities and hiring is not a top priority for companies.
More Job Search Tips
Are you currently looking for work? Are you ready to make a career move? Check out these insightful blog posts by our Toronto recruiters:
When Is the Best Time to Look for a Job?
4 Ways to Seamlessly Jump Back into Your Career After Time Off
Want to Get Hired at a Start-up? How to Position Yourself for the Gig Economy
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