January often gets all the attention when it comes to making changes, but November is a quiet contender. With less competition in the market compared to January, and companies keen to complete hires before year-end budgets close, it’s a wise time to act. For employers, this means new starters can be onboarded and ready with boots on the ground at the start of the new year. For candidates, it’s a change to get ahead of the curve before the January rush.

Why it matters for employers
Instead of the influx of jobseekers that make a career-change one of their New Year resolutions, you can access proactive candidates now. Recruiting in November allows time for notice periods, so new hires can settle in and be ready to hit the ground running in 2026. This avoids the slowdown that often comes with trying to hire in January.

Why it matters for candidates
Applying now gives your CV more visibility, with fewer competitors in the running. It’s the perfect time to refresh your professional profile, connect with recruiters, and line up opportunities so you’re prepared for the year ahead.

Actionable points for Employers;

• Review workforce requirements now, rather than delaying until January
• Take advantage of a quieter market to secure strong candidates
• Use November for forward planning – team gaps, seasonal demands and 2026 project pipelines

Actionable points for Candidates:

• Refresh your CV and LinkedIn profile now
• Reach out to recruiters and expand your network before the Christmas downtime
• Set your career goals for 2026 and target roles that align

Get in touch with us for support with CVs, job searches, or any recruitment needs!