It’s that time of year again: kids are heading back to school, routines are falling back into place, and for job seekers, there’s another important seasonal shift to know about — the September Surge.
If you’re in the recruiting world, you’ve likely heard the term before. The September Surge refers to the noticeable uptick in hiring activity that typically kicks off in late August and runs through October. As summer vacations wrap up, hiring managers return to their desks ready to fill open roles before the year’s end.
If you’ve been struggling to gain traction in the job market, this is your signal to move. And if you’re considering a career change, here are three practical ways to take advantage of this hiring momentum.
Update Your Resume (Again)
Think of your resume as a living document, not a one-and-done file.
- Add a strong profile summary at the top that clearly communicates your value.
- Integrate relevant keywords tailored to the roles you’re targeting — this can help with applicant tracking systems (ATS).
- Keep the formatting clean and simple, making use of bullet points and white space for easy readability.
- Have multiple versions of your resume, each tailored for specific positions.
The extra effort can be the difference between landing an interview and getting lost in a pile of applications.
Set a Clear Target
A job search without structure can quickly become overwhelming.
- Define your search parameters — whether it’s a set number of hours per week you’ll spend applying, a specific number of networking calls, or a deadline by which you hope to land a role.
- Tracking your activity can help maintain momentum and prevent burnout.
- Remember: your time is valuable, so focus on quality over quantity in your applications.
Expand and Leverage Your Network
You’ve heard it before — and it’s worth repeating: networking matters. But during the September Surge, how you network matters even more.
- Go beyond your immediate circle: reach out to alumni groups, former colleagues, second-degree LinkedIn connections, and community contacts.
- Don’t underestimate casual connections — parents from your kids’ sports teams, volunteer groups, or even people you meet at industry events can be valuable links.
- Most importantly, don’t be afraid to reach out to people you assume are “too busy” to help. You might be surprised at who’s willing to make an introduction or share an opportunity.
Why Now Is the Time to Make Your Move
The September Surge isn’t just recruiter lingo — it’s a real hiring trend that job seekers can leverage. With companies eager to close out the year strong, now is the time to update your materials, get focused, and start making strategic connections.
If you’re ready to explore your next career opportunity, our team at Versique Executive, Professional & Interim Recruiting can help you navigate the process and connect you with the right role — at the right time.
