How Long is the Average Job Search? Should I Get Worried After a Month?

There is no magic number of how long it might take to get a new job, and it depends on multiple factors. Generally, from application to offer could take two weeks to a month. Don’t panic if it takes some time. There are some things to consider before you embark on a job search and how to be prepared.

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Consider the market

The role and industry it’s in might impact this timeframe. Economic conditions and world events can affect the need for specific roles. This might lead to a talent shortage in some sectors but a downturn in others. Consider where your experience is needed and if it’s a good time for that new opportunity.

Apply for the right roles

Review the job requirements if you haven’t heard anything despite applying for a role. Don’t apply based on the job title alone. Look at the duties, outcomes, and experience required. Job titles can vary between industries and companies, so determine if you need to review what opportunities suit your skills and experience. Also, don’t put all your eggs in one basket and rely on one application. Organisations expect that you will be actively applying for multiple roles, so don’t be afraid to go for more than one at once, as long as they are suitable.

Read the job advert and ask around

Make sure you check if there is a line on the job ad stating that only successful applicants will be contacted. It might be reasonable that you’ve not heard anything. If your peers or friends and also job searching, check in with how long their process is taking, or if you have any connections in the organisation ask them what their experience was.

Follow up

There is a balance between harassing a busy person and politely enquiring. People make mistakes, so if you have applied for a job and haven’t heard back by the expected timeframe, it is reasonable to send an email to enquire about the recruitment process. Be humble and thankful for their response. Resist the urge to call the hiring manager repeatedly as this is often unwelcome and an annoying distraction.

Review your resume

Review your resume if you are still waiting to get phone interviews (often the first step) or any acknowledgment. Most candidates rush this and see it as a chore, but it is critical to getting the attention of your new prospective employer. A hiring manager will likely review hundreds of these per role, so don’t waste their time. Address the selection criteria, make it concise, and determine how to stand out. Ask a friend or peer to review it for you.

Keep at it

Looking for a new job can start as an exciting exercise, only to become exhausting and overwhelming if you are still waiting to hear back. It can be common for people to hear nothing once they have applied, so you are not alone. The right role can take time, but stay motivated and focused on the end goal.