You’re probably in high demand if you’re looking for a new job right now. Businesses across all industries are scrambling to hire and retain workers as the economy recovers from the pandemic.

After a year and a half of turmoil, this huge influx of hiring may be boosting job seekers’ and workers’ confidence.

Job vacancies in the UK hit 20 year high

According to the most recent official figures, the number of job vacancies in the UK has reached an all-time high.

According to the Office for National Statistics, vacancies reached 1.1 million between July and September, the highest level since records began in 2001.

The ONS also reported that the number of employees on payrolls increased by 207,000 in September, reaching a new high of 29.2 million.

“The jobs market has continued to recover from the effects of the coronavirus,” said Darren Morgan, director of economic statistics at the ONS. “The number of employees on payroll in September now far exceeds pre-pandemic levels.”

How job seekers can take advantage of the hot hiring market

Announcements of companies hiring for thousands of roles is good news for people who lost their jobs during the pandemic or were waiting for the chance to jump to a new company.

There are more job openings than ever before, but there are also more applicants. The job market is in a completely different place than it has been for most of the pandemic. Companies held the power, and job seekers were hesitant to move during these uncertain times. In this new opportunity-rich environment, candidates now hold the power.

For those thinking about looking for a new role, now could be an excellent time to step up your search as companies prepare for 2022.

Here are some tips to help you stand out from the crowd and land the job you want.

Plan your job search

Taking some time to plan your job search can save you a ton of problems later on in the process. At the beginning of your search, spend a week or so sending out targeted applications for the roles that you are interested in. Then move on to the interview stage, where you can focus on converting those interviews into job offers.

Moving through your job search this way will help to align all your processes and give you the best chance at getting multiple job offers around the same time, so you can make the best decision.

Focus on your CV

Your CV is your chance to make an impression and sell yourself. When you write a CV that is tailored to the industry and the role, your job search will take a turn for the better. Three things to remember are to keep it clean, focused, and memorable.

For more in-depth advice on writing the perfect CV, we’ve put together some Digital Marketing CV tips.

Use employee referral programs

Take advantage of your network. If someone from within the company has recommended you for the job, you’ll have a better chance of getting hired.

In a competitive job market, this might give you an advantage over your competition.

Make sure you negotiate

If you followed our advice and planned your job search, you can use your multiple job offers to speed up the decision-making process and negotiate with potential employers.

We know this can feel very awkward, but It’s a great time to ask for more with employers struggling to hire and retain employees.

Partner with a recruitment agency

More marketing professionals are turning to specialised headhunters when they want to explore career options. A recruiter like Herd can assist you with your job search, finding the role that’s right for your long-term career development and your lifestyle goals – helping you spot red flags and unsuitable offers along the way.

Acting as the middle-man between you and leading employers in the UK, it’s in your recruiter’s best interest to fight for the salary, perks and package that meet your requirements. Check out our latest Digital Marketing jobs or call us to find out how we can help your career: 0208 629 6006.