Job Seekers Are Finding Jobs Faster and With Renewed Optimism
Job seekers in the U.S. began 2025 feeling better about their career options and are also reporting they need to submit fewer applications to get hired, compared to fall of 2024. For employers, these trends can be seen as good news if they are prepared to focus on providing the core motivators for attracting and retaining workers (pay, job security and career advancement). Meeting these expectations and shortening the hiring process could help companies stabilize their workforce.
Growing Optimism Amongst Job Seekers
In our latest survey, when asked to describe their current view of the job market compared to last year, 43 percent of respondents stated they feel better about finding a quality job. This is a 15 percent increase compared to our previous survey in fall of 2024 and an eight percent increase from our report in spring of 2024. Job seekers in the U.S. reporting they feel same about their prospective job opportunities remained at 21 percent.
Furthermore, respondents stating their financial situation is worse compared to the previous year dropped nearly ten percent over our last two surveys. These results suggest job seekers in the U.S. are in a better place mentally and financially as they search for work.
What has changed over the last four months that explains the change in trends? One potential factor is seasonality, as job searches usually decrease towards the end of the year. Our previous survey was conducted prior to the U.S. presidential election, which may have added some uncertainty about future career opportunities. In contrast, job searches tend to increase at the beginning of the year, leading to more favorable views of the job market.
Overall, these findings indicate a positive shift in job seekers' confidence and financial stability as they navigate the employment landscape. This optimism is further reflected in the changing job seeker application expectations.
How Many Applications Does It Take to Get Hired?
Another trend indicating a shift in the job market is the decrease in the number of applications required to secure employment. The percentage of respondents who found a job after submitting 25 or fewer applications rose to 64 percent. Despite many individuals securing employment more rapidly, a considerable number of job seekers reported needing to submit 100 or more applications to obtain a job.
“Application Fatigue” is a term that has gained attention over the last year. It describes the mental and emotional exhaustion experienced by job seekers due to applying to numerous opportunities without receiving a positive response or an offer. The gradual cooling of the overall hiring market has continued into 2025, but according to our survey, respondents are finding work with less effort compared to fall of 2024.
Since 2023, more respondents reported needing to submit over 100 applications, but this trend ended with our latest report. Despite the unpredictable hiring landscape, quicker job placements may prompt others to start job hunting. Still, balancing pay and job security is crucial for accepting new positions.
What This Means for Hiring Managers
The good news is applicants feel better about finding quality work, which could mean a growing candidate pool during an ongoing labor shortage. This shift suggests job seekers are now more likely to find positions that align with their skills and career goals. For employers, this trend underscores the importance of presenting attractive job offers and hiring more quickly.
If your company is unable to meet the current core motivators or hire quickly, there may be at risk of missing out on high-quality talent. Pay and job security are primary reasons applicants accept new positions. Additionally, learning new skills and career advancement are key factors that lead job seekers to find new work.
A streamlined hiring process further distinguishes an organization, as it demonstrates respect for the applicant's time and eagerness to onboard valuable team members promptly. This proactive approach not only attracts candidates but also fosters a positive reputation in the job market, making the company a desirable place to work.
2025 begins with job seekers showing renewed enthusiasm. They believe better job opportunities are available and are finding them with less effort compared to 2024. Understanding job seeker sentiment is crucial for employers to adapt to the evolving job market. Insights from our Job Seeker Survey highlight the need for employers to focus on key motivators and reduce speed-to-hire.