The arrival of fall brings with it the changing leaves, pumpkin spice lattes, and a potential shift in the job market. As the summer months come to a close, experts suggest that there may be a “September surge” in job postings as recruiters and hiring managers return from vacation. While there is no hard data to support this theory, it is worth considering as job seekers navigate their job search during the fall season.
Cara Heilmann, president of the International Association of Career Coaches and founder of Ready Set Go, a career coaching firm, notes that the summer months can be challenging for job seekers due to team members being out of the office. This can lead to delays in the hiring process and create a sense of uncertainty for those seeking employment. However, as fall approaches, there may be more opportunities available for job seekers to explore.
Julia Pollak, chief economist at ZipRecruiter, explains that while there is a slight decline in the number of job openings and hires in the U.S. between August and September on average, the fall season can still be a good time to search for a job. Job seeker behavior tends to decline in September, with fewer applications submitted compared to the previous month. This could potentially benefit those actively looking for employment as they face less competition from other candidates.
Networking is key during the job search process, especially in the fall season. Erin McGoff, a career educator with a strong social media following, emphasizes the importance of making direct connections with individuals in companies of interest. Rather than solely relying on online job applications, job seekers should focus on building relationships and seeking referrals from their network. This personalized approach can help candidates stand out in a crowded job market.
Gathering insight into the companies you are applying to can also make a difference in your job search. Aaron Terrazas, chief economist at Glassdoor, suggests researching the company culture, language, and interview process to better prepare for the application process. By understanding what employers are looking for, candidates can tailor their applications and showcase their qualifications effectively.
Tailoring your resume is essential when applying for jobs in the fall season. McGoff emphasizes the importance of submitting customized applications rather than generic resumes. Recruiters are more likely to notice personalized resumes that highlight relevant experience and skills. By taking the time to tailor each application, job seekers can increase their chances of standing out to potential employers.
Incorporating a rating system can help job seekers prioritize their job applications and focus on opportunities that align with their career goals. Heilmann suggests evaluating each job posting on a scale of one to ten to determine the level of interest and enthusiasm for the position. By investing more time and effort into applications for roles that excite them, candidates can increase their chances of securing interviews and job offers.
A successful job search strategy involves a combination of applying online, networking, and seeking guidance from career coaches or recruiters. Heilmann refers to this approach as the “three-legged stool,” emphasizing the importance of a balanced strategy. By utilizing multiple avenues for job searching, candidates can maximize their opportunities and increase their chances of landing their desired role.
As fall is bookended by major holidays, job seekers should move quickly to capitalize on potential job opportunities. Terrazas highlights the narrow window of time available for job seekers during the fall season and advises taking prompt action to secure employment. By staying proactive and strategic in their job search efforts, individuals can position themselves for success in a competitive job market.
Overall, the fall season presents unique opportunities for job seekers to explore new career prospects and advance their professional goals. By leveraging networking, tailoring applications, and seeking expert advice, individuals can navigate the job market with confidence and increase their chances of finding fulfilling employment opportunities. As the leaves change and the weather cools, now is the time to embrace the fall season as a period of growth and opportunity in the job search process.