Why Are Job Searches Taking So Long in Turkey?

Remember when finding a job in Turkey took 1-2 months? It was a norm for 10 years while I was a recruiter. But today, things are different.

So, who’s to blame for recruitment processes stretching into 6+ months?

I recently ran a poll on LinkedIn to see if job-seeker experiences in 2024 matched my observations. Here are the results.

While most reasons for lengthy job searches lie with organizations, some are related to the job seekers.

Challenges on the Organizational Side:

1. Hiring Freezes:

Unstable economic conditions frequently lead to hiring pauses. Companies start hiring, hit pause faster than you can say "inflation," and then pick up again months later. This has happened to several of my clients who were looking for jobs in 2024.

2. Shifting Priorities:

Hiring can be urgent—until it’s not. One minute, the Hiring Manager is all in; the next, they’re carried away by some corporate “crisis of the week.” When the fire is put out, they return to the hiring; however, it might take weeks or months.

3.? Internal Inefficiencies:

Let’s be honest: we all wish recruitment processes were efficient, human, and results-oriented. Instead, we get lengthy approval chains and role definitions that change more often than prices in local supermarkets.

Challenges for Job Seekers:

For job seekers, the search has become more than a full-time job. The following 2 actions are the natural outcome.

1. Pausing the Search

About 40% of my clients hit pause at some point, overwhelmed by work, family obligations, or life in general. This is understandable, but these pauses naturally stretch the timeline.

2. The “Apply-and-Wait” Trap?

Many job seekers switch to a passive approach: “Apply, wait, and pray.” I agree that this approach should be enough; however, although it still works for some, it’s not enough for most to get a job within a desired timeline.

Let’s face it: job seeking isn’t a sprint anymore. It’s a test of endurance—and sanity.

How to Stay Sane (and Productive):

Feeling overwhelmed is inevitable; it’s natural. When it does, take a break.

Also, I advise you to find a?“job search buddy.” Whether it’s a friend, partner, or coach, having someone to share your job search journey and celebrate small wins with - can keep you sane in the long run.

What Can You Control?

Sure, you can’t control hiring freezes or shifting priorities, but you can take charge of your own strategy. Here’s how:

• Develop a personalized job search strategy with clear, actionable steps.
• Stay consistent without exhausting yourself.
• Build resilience and accept that it might take more than you expected to reach your goal.

Remember, the key is balance: putting in the effort without letting the process drain the life out of you. After all, you’re not just hunting for a job—you’re building the next chapter of your career.

So, while the recruitment may feel like chaos, remember: you’ve got this. And if you need a little extra help, I’m here.

Warm regards (and a smile),

Your Career Coach, Inuta Sert