Q1 Trends & Q2 Predictions

With the first quarter of 2019 complete, it’s time to look at our Q1 trends and predictions for Q2.

Q1

NEW YEAR, NEW ROLE

After having the Christmas break to reflect on their current job and future career opportunities, lots of candidates kick-started their search in January, creating a very busy start to Q1 for JFL.

LEVELS

Throughout Q1, the Account Manager/Senior Account Manager level has been extremely busy, creating a very competitive candidate market. However, this has meant that other levels took a slight hit, especially the senior level. Nevertheless, we suspect that this could also be a reflection of business not wanting to make big investment hires with Brexit uncertainty.

Despite the mid-level being the busiest, the junior level saw the most movement. JAE-SAE candidates were very in demand and were therefore snapped up by clients, causing a lot of competition across companies. This led to clients having to speed up their decision-making processes in order to not miss out on talented candidates.

SECTORS

Corporate communications was by far our most in demand sector, both client and candidate side. Many junior level candidates were wanting to begin their career in corp comms, mid-level candidates were wanting to change job but stay in corporate communications and clients were keen to grow their corporate offering.

ROLES

JFL is very grateful for all clients we work with, big or small, agency or in-house, so thank you to our clients! We have had the opportunity to work on some fantastic agency roles and have even seen a real increase in in-house opportunities across all levels.

Q2

PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Despite Brexit uncertainty throughout Q1, we have noticed that clients are starting to make more senior hires. We suspect that this could be partly because Theresa May has asked for another Brexit extension until 30th June, meaning hires may not be as affected as once thought. Or, people are simply just bored of Brexit.

STRATEGIC RECRUITING

Throughout Q2, we predict that there will be more clients proactively on the lookout for good talent without necessarily having an immediate need. We think this is a very strategic way to recruit as it means you constantly have access to the talent pool and don’t have to scramble to hire when there’s a sudden need.

JFL TAKES ON THE WORLD

JFL has had the opportunity to work on some fantastic international roles throughout Q1, and we are seeing this continue into Q2. In addition, more candidates are also looking for international opportunities. If you’re looking for an international opportunity, make sure to get in touch at info@jflrecruit.com!

GROWTH

We are always looking to grow our team, and we’re very excited to welcome our newest member at the beginning of May so make sure to look out for a welcome blog! If you’re an experienced recruiter and would like to join our fabulous team, please get in touch with Edwina (MD). Huge congratulations to Georgia who got promoted to Consultant at the beginning of Q2!