Get Ahead in Your Job Search

Want the job everyone else will be fighting for next month? Here’s how to get it first.

August often gets labelled as a quiet month for recruitment. People assume that hiring slows down, managers are away, and it’s not worth starting a job search until September. In our experience at Hoop, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

If you’re thinking about a career move — whether you’re an experienced teacher, a dedicated social worker, a skilled HR professional or a nurse looking for your next opportunity — August could actually give you a head start on the competition.

Here’s why acting now can make all the difference.

Less competition means more visibility

Most people wait until September to start looking, which means fewer applications are being submitted right now. By applying in August, your CV has a much better chance of catching an employer’s attention instead of getting lost in a busy inbox.

Employers are preparing for September

Rather than pressing pause, many schools, care providers and professional services teams are busy lining up staff for the new academic year or the busier autumn months. Interviews are happening now so that new hires can start without delay in September.

More time for genuine conversations

When things are a little quieter, recruiters and hiring managers can focus more on each candidate. This is the perfect time to update your CV, think about your long-term career goals and have in-depth conversations about what you’re really looking for. We can take the time to explore roles that genuinely suit you, rather than just reacting to urgent vacancies.

Avoid the September rush

Once September arrives, the market changes overnight. Vacancies fill faster, interview slots are harder to secure and the volume of applications slows everything down. Starting now means you could already have an offer in hand before the rush begins.

Specialist roles are still available

In education, healthcare, social work, HR and professional services, there’s rarely a genuine break in demand. Staffing needs carry on all year, and with the new school term and higher service levels around the corner, many employers are actively recruiting right now.

We’re also hiring recruitment consultants

It’s not just candidates we’re looking for. We're growing our Hoop team! If you’re an experienced recruitment consultant with a passion for connecting people to life-changing opportunities, we’d love to hear from you. We’re expanding across all our divisions and August is the perfect time to join a team that’s ready for a busy and exciting autumn.

The takeaway

Don’t wait until September to get moving. August offers fewer competitors for the same roles, more time from recruiters, and employers who are already preparing for the months ahead. Whether you’re a teacher, nurse, HR professional, social worker or recruiter, the best time to get started could be right now.

If you're looking for flexible agency work around South Wales and England, drop your CV to register with us: Upload your CV

If you're an experienced recruitment consultant looking for a business that puts you first, please send your CV to luisa.gale@hooprecruitment.co.uk.

Apply here: Join our team

Alternatively, you can call us on 02922 400519 to speak to a team member.