As the summer sun begins to set and the days gradually become shorter, (let’s take a minute for a quick cry that the summer is nearly over) a notable shift occurs in the job market. Known as the “September Surge,” this period is marked by a significant rise in job hunting and job vacancies.
For many professionals, September presents an ideal opportunity to seek new career opportunities, while for employers, it’s a critical time to fill essential roles before the year ends. But what exactly fuels this surge, and how can both job seekers and employers make the most of it?
While the September Surge offers significant benefits to job seekers, it’s equally advantageous for employers.
The Origins of the September Surge
The term “September Surge”, which originated in the US, refers to the seasonal increase in job hunting and job vacancies that occurs after the summer months. This phenomenon isn’t just a coincidence but rather a predictable trend that has been observed across various industries for many years. Several factors contribute to this uptick:
1. End of the Holiday Season: No great shocks here but summer is traditionally a time when people take holidays and spend time away from work. This generally results in a slowdown in hiring activities, as both employers and job seekers prioritise time off over career changes. When September arrives, there’s a renewed focus on professional goals, prompting a surge in job applications and job postings.
2. Back to Business Mindset: September marks the lead-up to the final quarter of the year. For many companies, this is a crucial period to meet annual targets, launch new projects, or prepare for the next fiscal year. As a result, employers are eager to fill any remaining vacancies, bolster their teams and ensure they are prepared for a strong finish to the year.
3. Graduates Entering the Job Market: Another contributor to the September Surge is the yearly influx of recent graduates. Many students who have completed their studies in the spring or summer begin their job search in September once they’ve received their results and diplomas. Employers, aware of this, will post entry-level positions or graduate program roles to attract fresh talent and build for the future.
Why Job Hunting in September is Advantageous
If you’re considering a career move, the September Surge is the perfect time to dive into job hunting. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Increased Job Vacancies: As companies ramp up their hiring efforts again after the summer lull or break, job vacancies tend to rise significantly in September. This means there are more opportunities for job seekers to find roles that align with their skills and career aspirations.
2. Competitive Edge: Many job seekers wait until the new year to start their job hunt, assuming that January is the best time to look for new opportunities. However, by taking advantage of the September Surge, you can get a head start on the competition, secure a new role before the holiday season and enter the new year fully integrated into your new role.
3. Better Work-Life Balance: If you’ve just spent the summer relaxing, recharging, reflecting on your career and realised that you’re seeking a better work-life balance. September is the ideal time to act. Many companies are increasingly prioritising employee well-being, and the roles that emerge during this period will often reflect a more holistic approach to work and include remote and hybrid working options.
4. Networking Opportunities: September is also a time when many industry conferences, seminars, and networking events begin to fill the calendar again. These events provide excellent opportunities to connect with potential employers, learn about new job vacancies, and gain insights into industry trends.
How Employers Can Leverage the September Surge
While the September Surge offers significant benefits to job seekers, it’s equally advantageous for employers. Here’s how companies can leverage their position during this period:
1. Strategic Hiring: With the increased number of job seekers in the market, September is the perfect time for employers to be strategic in their hiring. By posting job vacancies during this period, companies can attract a diverse pool of candidates, including those who may have been passively considering a career change over the summer. This is also a fantastic time to build specific project teams.
2. Focus on Employer Branding: The influx of job hunters in September also means that competition among employers will be fierce. This is an opportune time for companies to stand out and focus on strengthening or even leveraging their employer brand. Ensure you’re highlighting company culture, employee benefits, and career growth opportunities as these make a significant difference in attracting top talent.
3. Timing and Speed is Paramount: The September Surge is a short window, lasting only a few weeks. Employers who act quickly and efficiently during this time can screen, interview and secure the best candidates before the market becomes saturated. This means evaluating and streamlining the hiring process, offering competitive salaries, and being decisive in making job offers.
4. Prepare for the Year-End: As the final quarter approaches, many companies have a clearer picture of their year-end goals. This allows for more accurate hiring decisions that align with long-term business strategies. Therefore, filling job vacancies in September should ensure that teams are fully staffed and prepared to tackle upcoming challenges.
Tips for Job Seekers During the September Surge
The clock is ticking and if you’re ready to embark on a job hunt this September, here are some tips to maximise your success:
1. Update Your CV and LinkedIn Profile: Before applying for any roles, ensure that your CV and LinkedIn profile are up to date. Highlight recent achievements, skills, and experiences that are relevant to the roles you’re interested in. Having an up-to-date CV to hand means you can apply for roles as soon as you see them
2. Set Clear Goals: Take time to fully understand and know what you’re looking for in your next role. Whether it’s a specific industry, company size, or job function, having clear goals will help you focus your job-hunting efforts.
3. Be Persistent: The September Surge can be competitive, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t land a job right away. Keep applying, refining your approach, and following up on applications.
Conclusion
The September Surge is a golden opportunity for both job seekers and employers. With an increase in job hunting and job vacancies, this period offers a fantastic opportunity to advance careers and strengthen teams. By understanding the dynamics of this surge and strategically approaching it, both parties can reap the benefits of this vibrant hiring season. Whether you’re looking to make a career change or hire top talent, September is the month to act.
Finally, if you’re looking for assistance in finding your dream job. PE Global are here to help. We’ll guide you through the entire job-finding process. So, please get in touch or email queries@peglobal.net.
