Published Date: 21 January 2025
We’ve all been there – counting down the days until the start of the year and realising it’s time for a change. Maybe you’re dreaming bigger, eager to learn new skills, or ready to take your career in a new direction. So, like countless others, you decide the New Year is the time to make a fresh start. You make a resolution to find a new job where you can learn more, earn more, and smile more.
But then, you might start thinking, "Is now the best time to search?"
With decades of experience in recruitment here in New Zealand, we’ve observed that the start of the year is, in fact, an excellent time to start your job search. Here's why starting early in the year can give you the upper hand:
A Matter of Timing
The beginning of the year is often seen as a quieter time in recruitment, but that’s actually an advantage for job seekers. Here’s why starting your job search now is a smart move:
Less competition: Many people wait until later in the year to start looking for a new role. Starting early means fewer people are actively job hunting, giving you an edge.
Hiring managers are back in action: After the holiday season, many businesses have fresh budgets and plans for the year, which means new roles are being created and hiring processes are ramping up quickly.
Beat the rush: If you wait too long, hiring managers may have already filled the roles you were interested in. By getting ahead of the curve, you position yourself to be one of the first candidates considered for new positions.
Your Job Search Momentum Starts Now
Here’s why procrastination can hurt you and why getting started now is a great decision:
Hiring processes have changed: Recruitment is faster and more efficient than ever. If you’re already prepared with an updated CV and registered with a reputable recruitment agency, you’ll be ready to move quickly when opportunities arise.
Stay ahead of the competition: In today’s fast-paced recruitment market, being proactive is key. Starting now gives you more time to explore opportunities and gives hiring managers the chance to see your application at the top of their list.
Procrastination can hurt you: Waiting until later in the year may result in a missed opportunity. Starting now, even with small, manageable steps, ensures you’re consistently moving forward without feeling overwhelmed.
Use a Game Plan
Break down your job-hunting process into bite-sized tasks so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. One approach is to dedicate a few days per week to each task and tick them off as you go.
Here’s an example checklist to help you get started:
Write down your achievements since your last role and add them to your CV. For tips on how to structure the content of your CV, read our guide to optimising your CV for AI).
Review your CV, removing history that isn’t relevant to the jobs you’re currently interested in. Update the layout and font to avoid it looking old-fashioned. (Click here to access our CV guide and template).
Ask someone who has high attention to detail and a good grasp of the English language to proofread your CV. Double-check all dates, names, and titles, and ensure your contact details are up to date.
Investigate which recruitment consultants specialise in your area of expertise and get in touch with them.
Send your updated CV to the recruitment consultant you’ve identified and ask them for feedback. (We’ll be happy to help!)
Add a regular calendar alert to keep in touch with the recruitment consultant about new roles.
Traditionally, recruitment consultants have a bit more time at the start of the year. We will have more time for a general chat or introductory interview with you during this period, so it’s an ideal time to send over your CV and start that connection. When we know we can assist a job seeker with potential opportunities in the future, we can begin actively keeping an eye out for roles that match your skills and goals.
This way, even if we can’t find anything for you early in the year, we will be ready to promote you to our network of employers when the right opportunities come along.
No More Delays
Starting your job search now gives you time to set yourself up for success in 2025. Even if you don’t land a new role immediately, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running when the right opportunity comes along. Your future self will thank you for being proactive!
Fulfil your New Year’s Resolution with Beyond Recruitment
Ready to take the next step? Start by browsing Beyond Recruitment’s website, where you’ll find permanent roles and opportunities across New Zealand. Have you connected with a recruiter yet? Now’s the perfect time. Reach out and stay in touch with us – keeping us updated on your journey ensures you’ll be at the top of your mind when the right opportunities come along. Let’s work together to find your next great role.
