Why October & November may be the best times to look for a new job in Finance

If you’re thinking about making a career move in finance, don’t wait until the New Year. October and November may be the most strategic time to search for a new role. Here’s why autumn could be the golden opportunity for your job search.

1. Year-End Budgets Need to Be Spent

Many financial companies are eager to use up their annual hiring budgets before the year ends. By autumn, they have a clearer view of their remaining budget and may fast-track hires to ensure they fill key roles. This is great news for job seekers, as businesses tend to hire quickly before the fiscal year resets.

2. Less Competition

The job market often slows down towards the end of the year, with many candidates postponing their search until January. This means that during October and November, there are fewer applicants for each role, giving you a better chance to stand out and get noticed. With a less crowded field, your CV is more likely to make it to the top of the pile.

3. Planning for the New Financial Year

During the autumn months, companies are actively planning for the next financial year. Roles in budgeting, forecasting, and financial strategy are in high demand as businesses gear up for the future. If you get hired now, you can be part of this critical planning phase, allowing you to make a strong impression from the start.

4. Beat the January Rush

Starting a new job before the holiday season gives you the chance to transition into your role during a quieter period. December is often less hectic, allowing you time to settle in before business picks up in January. By the time the New Year arrives, you’ll be fully integrated and ready to tackle the busy season, giving you a head start over those who waited to begin their job search.

5. Networking Opportunities Abound

October and November are prime months for industry conferences, networking events, and end-of-year gatherings. Many financial professionals are attending these events, which can offer a wealth of opportunities to connect with potential employers. Building these relationships now could open the door to job opportunities before the masses start applying in January.

6. Faster Hiring Decisions

As businesses prepare for the holiday season, they’re motivated to finalise hiring decisions before things slow down in December. This means recruitment processes often move faster in October and November, giving you a quicker turnaround from interviews to job offers. For those eager to make a move, this can lead to less waiting time compared to the post-holiday rush.

Final Thoughts

While January may be the traditional time for job searches, the quieter, more focused environment of October and November offers unique advantages, especially in finance. From maximising end-of-year budgets to being part of crucial business planning for the next year, now is the perfect time to make your move. Start your job search this autumn and position yourself ahead of the competition, ensuring you’re ready to hit the ground running in 2025.

In case you missed it, you can read our last post HERE