Essential Networking Tips for Job Seekers

Looking for a job in 2025 and wondering when's the best time to apply? Whether you're a recent graduate, early-career jobseeker, or international student searching for visa-sponsored roles, timing your applications can make a big difference.

In this guide, we'll break down how hiring trends shift throughout the year, what each month looks like for job seekers, and how to make the most of each season, so you never feel stuck or left behind.

Many people assume job searching is all about your skills, your CV, or how many applications you send, but when you apply can significantly affect your success.

Here's why timing matters:

Hiring budgets are seasonal – Companies tend to post more roles when they have new budgets, typically at the start of a quarter or fiscal year.

Competition varies – Some months are busier, but they also come with more candidates applying.

Different companies have different hiring seasons - corporates vs start-ups will hire different, as will specific industries

Understanding the rhythm of hiring seasons helps you work smarter, not just harder.

January is a bumper month across most industries and spaces. Companies have fresh budgets and new business goals, and hiring teams are under pressure to kick off strong.

What to focus on: Graduate Schemes, Start Ups, SMEs, All Industries, Internships