I don’t know about you, but I find that the start of the year is a natural time to reflect. It’s the timewhen a lot of people start wondering if this is the year to change jobs…and ifso, when to start looking.
I get asked this a lot. Usually phrased in slightly different ways, but it all comes back to the same thing. You want a change this year, but you don’t want to mistimeit, rush it, or miss out by waiting too long.
The honestanswer is that there’s no single perfect month to apply. But there is a right window for you, and it usually has less to do with the calendar than people think.
First, ask yourself why you’re asking now
Most people don’t wake up on January 1st suddenly wanting a new job. This question usually shows up after a few things have been sitting there quietly for a while.
Maybe last year didn’t quite turn out how you hoped. May be the role changed, the team shifted, or progression stalled. Or maybe nothing is “wrong”, but you’re feeling ready for something different and want to be more intentional this year.
That context matters. If you’re asking this question because you feel unsettled or stuck, waiting for a mythical “perfect time” often just stretches that feeling outlonger.
Hiring runsin waves, not straight lines
In NewZealand, hiring does tend to move in patterns, especially across marketing, digital, tech, and creative roles.
Early in the year is usually active. Budgets are approved, teams are back, and hiring managers are motivated to move on to roles they’ve been waiting to open. That said, activity doesn’t suddenly stop after March. It shifts.
Mid-year canbe quieter publicly, but plenty still happens behind the scenes. Later in the year, often pick up again as teams plan ahead, replace leavers, or realise they need extra capability before year-end.
The mistake I see candidates make is assuming there’s one “good” season and one “bad” season. In reality, good roles appear all year. The difference is how prepared you are when they do.
Applying doesn’t have to mean committing
This is abig one, especially for people who are still a bit unsure.
Starting to apply doesn’t lock you into leaving your job. It’s not a contract with yourself. It’s information gathering.
Having conversations, updating your CV, and seeing how the market responds gives you clarity. It helps you understand your value, what’s realistic, and what actually excites you right now.
Some people start applying and realise they’re happier where they are, just with clearer boundaries or a different conversation internally. Others realise the opposite, and that moving sooner rather than later makes sense.
Both outcomes are useful.
Your readiness matters more than the date
The best time to apply is when you can show up well. That means a CV that reflects where you are now, not three versions ago. It means having a clear story about what you’re looking for next, even if it’s not perfectly polished.
If you’re exhausted, burnt out, or emotionally done, it can be tempting to apply in a rush just to escape. That usually leads to compromises you regret later.
Equally, waiting until you feel “100% ready” can turn into avoidance. Most people never feel fully ready. They just reach a point where staying feels harder than exploring.
Seniority and role type can change the timing
This is where nuance comes in.
More senior roles often take longer. Fewer opportunities, longer processes, and more decision-makers involved. Starting earlier gives you breathing room.
Early to mid-level roles can move faster, but competition can be higher. Being ready ahead of time helps you move confidently when something suitable appears.
Contract roles run on their own timeline entirely. Those conversations often happen quickly and unpredictably, so visibility matters more than timing.
A practicalway to think about it
Instead of asking, “When should I start applying?”, try reframing it slightly.
Ask, “When do I want to be in a new role by?”
Workback wards from there. Most permanent roles take several months from first application to first day. Sometimes longer. If you want to be settled into something new by the end of the year, waiting until the second half can put unnecessary pressure on the process.
Final note
If you want a new role this year, starting the process earlier gives you options. It gives you perspective. It gives you a choice.
You don’t need to sprint. You just need to start walking in the right direction, with your eyes open and your expectations grounded.
And if nothing else, having the conversation now usually makes the rest of the year feel a little clearer.
Got a question for an upcoming #AskAmelia?
Email me at askamelia@campfirerecruitment.co.nz, and your question could be featured in the next post.