How to ride the September Surge...

Have you heard about the “September surge” in recruitment? It’s the phenomenon currently trending on TikTok that brings promise of increasing your chances of finding a job. But what exactly is it, and does it really exist?

The "September Surge" Explained

The "September Surge" is the latest recruiting buzzword which refers to the notable increase in job openings that typically occurs as summer winds down and autumn begins. It's like a second wind for recruiters, HR managers and job seekers alike.

The concept is currently trending online with several career coaches encouraging job hunters to capitalise on it.

It’s the first time a name has been applied to the concept, but for experienced head-hunters, the circumstance is far from new. Karina Beasley, Gabriele’s Managing Director who has a 30-year understanding of the creative industry , recognises the September Surge's existence. She says, "Every year, without fail, we see a significant uptick in job postings and hiring activities in September as companies gear up for a final push before year-end. That doesn’t mean one will just fall into a job, but there are more opportunities so chances of finding a role are increased.”

The Summer Slowdown

To understand why the September Surge is causing conversation, it's important to consider what happens during the summer months.

Summer tends to be a slower time for hiring for a myriad of reasons:

1. Holidays: It is becoming more and more common for employees to spend a large chunk of the summer months on holiday and out of office – This is great for work/life balance but can lead to fewer job opportunities or slower correspondence.
2. Project Delays: Companies often delay hiring decisions until key projects are wrapped up, which can stretch into late summer.
3. Flexible Schedules: With employees taking time off and enjoying more flexible work schedules, it can be challenging to coordinate interviews and reviews...
4. Budgets and Planning: Companies frequently reassess their budgets and workforce needs after the mid-year point, leading to a surge in employment in late summer.
5. Schools Out: Many employees prefer to postpone job changes until after the back-to-school season, ensuring a smoother transition for themselves and their families.

What Does the September Surge Mean for Job Seekers?

If you're actively seeking a new opportunity, the September Surge spells excellent news for you. Here's why:

1. The Hiring Process is Often Faster: Recruiting teams know they will run into the same slowdown listed above once November and December roll around. So, September provides a small window to employ whilst people are in office and there’s time for people to start before the end of the fiscal year. There is urgency in the air which is great for those looking to start a new role quickly.
2. There are More Job Openings: As agencies kickstart their employment efforts again, you'll find a more extensive array of job openings across both freelance and perm. Design brand agencies anticipating a busy festive period are seeking a headcount to help them achieve their goals. We’re currently working with a few…

Take a look at our most recent jobs in creative design and brand. .

For many, September is a time to reassess, refocus and review.

1. The ‘New year Mentality’: For the workforce and education, September carries more of a new year spirit than January. When employees return from their holidays they do so with fresh focus and a rejuvenated desire to do things differently.

?Tips to Maximise Your September Job Search

Ready to make the most of the September Surge? Here are some tips to help you ride the wave to success:

1. Refresh Your CV & Portfolio: Ensure your CV & portfolio are up-to-date and tailored to the positions you're applying for. Highlight your accomplishments and skills effectively.
2. Actively Network: Attend networking events, both in-person and online. Connect with professionals in your industry and express your interest in new opportunities.
3. Set Clear Goals: Define your career goals and the type of role you're looking for. This clarity will guide your search and make it more efficient.
4. Prepare for Interviews: Brush up on your interview skills, rehearse common interview questions, and be ready to articulate your value to potential employers.
5. Follow Up: After interviews, always send a thank-you email to express your gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position. This keeps you top of mind, plus it's just good manners!
6. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on industry trends, job market updates, and company news. Being informed can give you an edge in interviews and networking discussions.
7. Be Persistent: The process of searching for a new job can be challenging. Don't get discouraged by rejection. Stay persistent and keep applying for relevant roles.

The September increase in jobs is more than just a social media trend, but in the constant ‘ebb and flow’ of recruiting it may be actually more of a modest bump than a surge. Karina states that January is probably the real busiest month for hiring – for obvious reasons. June is the next, “likely due to graduates entering the job market.”

If you're job hunting, understanding the everchanging waves that affect recruiting can work in your favour, but we believe that it’s drive and an exceptional portfolio and CV which works equally well in securing a dream role in a desirable agency.

Read How to stand out in a crowded creative job market

So, if you'll be riding the September surge, start by applying for relevant roles using the tips we’ve listed above. If you need specialist help to access the most respected agencies, we’re here to help.