As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s a phenomenon that takes place in the job market—a ‘September surge’. If you’ve been on TikTok and X recently, you’ve probably spotted #SeptemberSurge on your feeds.
It’s that hectic time of the year when employers across industries ramp up their hiring efforts, creating a unique window of opportunity for job seekers and employees looking to make a move.
So, what is this September surge, and how can you make the most of it?
Understanding the September Surge
The September surge is not some mythical event; it’s a real, annual occurrence in the job market. After the summer lull, many companies start gearing up for the final quarter of the year, which often brings increased projects, budgets, and business plans including what headcount is needed and in what roles and departments, and when the deadline may be to get candidates in the door. Hiring managers and recruiting staff are back in office, schedules are easier to coordinate for interviewing and open requisitions get picked back up, and more action gets taken on roles. To meet their evolving needs, employers actively seek new talent. This surge typically begins in early September and extends through October, making it a prime time to explore new job opportunities.
How to Take Advantage of the September Surge
If you’re ready to seize the September surge and supercharge your career, here are some steps to follow:
Update Your CV and Online Presence: Ensure your CV is polished and up-to-date, highlighting your skills, experience and achievements. Also, spruce up your LinkedIn profile to showcase your expertise and optimise connections with potential employers.
Set Clear Goals: Identify the type of role and company culture you’re looking for. This will help you focus your job search efforts and target your applications accordingly.
Network Actively: Attend industry events, virtual meetups, and networking sessions. Building and nurturing professional relationships can open doors to opportunities you might not find through traditional job postings.
Apply Strategically: Keep an eye on job boards, company websites, and recruitment websites for openings that align with your career goals (all our open our jobs can be found here). Don’t hesitate to apply early as competition can be fierce during the September surge. But remember,
“You don’t want to waste your time—and everyone else’s—by applying randomly for 400 or 200 jobs. This leads to considerable frustration and a lot of ghosting” (Judith Humphrey, Fast Company)
Don’t Be Put Off: Does the job you’re applying to have hundreds of applicants on LinkedIn? Don’t be afraid! Many of these applications will be unqualified, underskilled or not suitable. If your skills and profile stand out, you have just as much chance to get the interview.
Prepare for Interviews: Sharpen your interview skills and be ready to demonstrate how your experience aligns with the company’s needs. Practice common interview questions and craft compelling stories about your achievements.
Consider Temporary or Freelance Work: If you’re in between jobs, temporary or freelance work can be a fantastic way to gain experience and make valuable connections during this period of heightened hiring.
Take advantage of agencies: Recruiters offer job seekers a tailored, efficient route to their dream job. They possess industry expertise, insider knowledge, and extensive networks, streamlining the job search process. Moreover, they can connect candidates with hidden opportunities and provide invaluable guidance throughout the application and interview phases. Upload your CV here to connect with our recruiters and find suitable jobs for you!
What if There’s No September Surge?
While the September surge is a well-known trend, it’s not guaranteed for every industry or individual. If you find yourself in a situation where the surge isn’t benefiting your job search, there’s no need to despair. You can turn to a reliable recruitment agency like Concept to help you find the right job opportunity all year-round.
Concept specialises in connecting exceptional talent with employers across multiple industries, ensuring that your skills and preferences match the job opportunities available. Our expertise and wide network can help you find your dream job even if the September surge is elusive.
You can find roles across our specialisms here:
The September surge is your chance to shine in the job market, but it’s essential to be proactive and well-prepared. Update your credentials, network, and apply strategically to make the most of this annual phenomenon.
And remember, even if the surge doesn’t materialise in your industry, Concept is here to guide you on your career journey and help you find the perfect job match. So, go ahead, seize the September surge and trust Concept to find you your next career adventure. Your dream job is just around the corner!
