Bryony Gibson, director of Bryony Gibson Consulting, discusses the uncertainty of 2025's recruitment landscape and the right time for a career move.
As we head into 2025, the recruitment landscape is looking a little uncertain. Traditionally, December is a quieter month for hiring, with January bringing hope, positive action, and opportunity.
This year, in the wake of the Government’s October Budget, we’re seeing firms pause a little longer to consider their employment cost implications. In the world of accountants, this weakened economic confidence has left some unsure whether now is the right time to make a career move. My advice? If you’re contemplating a change, it may not be wise to leave it too long.
Recent data from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (via KPMG) highlighted a concerning trend. Permanent placements and job vacancies are falling at an accelerated rate. The fastest since August 2023. Potentially signalling the start of a hiring slowdown, for anyone looking for a career move, this means fewer opportunities and a much more competitive market is on the horizon.
In times like this, while staying put might feel like a safer option, if you are unhappy at work or have a niggling desire to move on, delaying your decision and waiting too long could mean missing out on the opportunities that are available now and facing an even tighter job market.
In my experience, the recruitment market can shift very quickly so how can you approach a period of uncertainty with confidence?
Stay Informed
Keep a close eye on market trends and industry reports. Understanding where opportunities lie can help you make better and more informed decisions. For example, at the moment, sectors such as technology and healthcare continue to show resilience, while others appear to be facing more pronounced challenges.
Prepare Your CV
Even if you’re not actively applying, having an up-to-date CV and LinkedIn profile ensures you’re ready to act when the right opportunity arises. Make sure you highlight transferable skills and keep your training and recent achievements up-to-date to help you stand out against your competition.
Network Strategically
Who you know is often just as important as what you know, especially in uncertain times. Try to make 2025 the year where you attend industry events, connect with peers, and engage with recruiters to ensure you’re on top of their minds when new opportunities emerge.
Consider Long-Term Goals
While uncertainty can feel unsettling, it also gives you the chance to reflect on your career path. Are you looking for stability in your life? Is now the time to pivot into a new specialism? Do you need to expand your knowledge with new training? Whatever it is, aligning your next move with your broader goals will make the decision clearer.
Act Now
Even in a slowdown, companies are still hiring – particularly for key roles that drive business growth. If you see an opportunity that aligns with your skill set, goals, and aspirations, don’t hesitate. Waiting for the “perfect” time or being too cautious may mean missing out altogether.
While 2025 may feel unpredictable, it could also be a year of possibility. And the good news is that companies who are recruiting seem to remain willing to pay increasingly higher starting salaries for the right people. By staying proactive, keeping informed, and being prepared, you can navigate the challenges and position yourself for career success.
I think it is true that “the greatest amount of wasted time is the time not getting started”. If a move has been on your mind, the best time to act is before the window of opportunity narrows further.