You May Need to Adjust Your Expectations.

We recently completed a survey across LinkedIn focusing on “ Is Your Job Search Taking Longer Than Expected? You May Need to Adjust Your Expectations.

1. From 1000+ survey respondents, 56% said it is taking them more than 6 months.

2. Nineteen (19%) said it has been taking them 3-4 months to find a new job

3. Only 15% said it has been taking them 5-6 months to find a new job

4. And 10% said they just started their job search and have only been looking for 1-2 months

Executive job searches are taking longer in 2025 due to several key factors. One significant reason is the increased complexity of the hiring process. Companies are leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to screen candidates more thoroughly. These tools analyze resumes, social media profiles, and even video interviews to assess candidates' fit for the role.

Companies have also been much more meticulous in their selection process, seeking individuals who not only have the right qualifications but also align with the organization's culture and strategic goals. This thorough vetting process, which includes multiple rounds of interviews and assessments, can significantly extend the duration of the job search.

Another factor contributing to the prolonged job search for executives is the limited availability of high-level positions. Unlike entry-level or mid-level roles, executive positions are fewer and often not publicly advertised. Companies typically rely on executive search firms or headhunters to identify and approach potential candidates discreetly. This means that many opportunities are not visible to job seekers, making it harder for them to find suitable openings. Additionally, the economic, political climate and industry-specific factors are influencing the availability of executive roles, further lengthening the job search process

Another contributing factor is the evolving nature of executive roles themselves. The rapid pace of technological advancements and the shift towards remote and hybrid work models have transformed the skills and competencies required for leadership positions. Executives are now expected to be adept at managing distributed teams, leveraging digital tools, and driving innovation in a constantly changing environment This shift means that companies are looking for candidates with a unique blend of traditional leadership skills and modern technological expertise, which can be challenging to find and match, thus prolonging the search process.

Economic and political changes and uncertainty also play a role in the extended duration of executive job searches. The job market has cooled compared to previous years, with hiring slowing across various sectors. Inflation concerns and high interest rates have also led companies to be more cautious in their expansion plans, affecting the availability of executive positions.

Additionally, changing immigration policies have created labor shortages in industries that traditionally relied on international talent. These factors contribute to a more competitive job market, where executives must navigate a complex landscape to secure new roles, ultimately extending the time it takes to find suitable opportunities. What distinguishes a shorter job search from a longer one is having all the pieces in place working together.

That means a resume that effectively communicates who you are, what you do, and what you are looking to do. Having your profiles effectively built out and optimized on the job boards so companies, hiring managers, and recruiters can find you. In addition, you must know how to search for new job openings that are just a few days, not weeks old using variations of titles, industry expertise, salary, years of experience, and geography (onsite, hybrid, remote). And of course, the last piece is your LinkedIn profile.

Ten Reasons Why Job Searches Are Taking Longer in 2025

1. Economic Uncertainty: The global economy has been experiencing fluctuations, leading companies to be more cautious in their hiring processes

2. Increased Competition: With more people entering the job market, the competition for available positions has intensified

3. Technological Advancements: The rise of AI and automation has redefined many roles, making it harder for job seekers to find positions that match their skills

4. Remote Work Preferences: Many job seekers prefer remote work, but not all companies are offering remote positions, leading to a mismatch in job preferences

5. Industry-Specific Slowdowns: Certain industries, such as tech and media, have seen a slowdown in hiring due to recent layoffs and restructuring

6. Longer Hiring Processes: Companies are taking more time to vet candidates thoroughly, leading to extended hiring processes

7. Return-to-Office Mandates: Some companies have implemented strict return-to-office policies, which may not align with job seekers' preferences

8. Wage Stagnation: Wage growth has slowed, making it less attractive for job seekers to accept new positions1

9. Limited Job Openings: There are fewer job openings compared to previous years, making it harder for job seekers to find suitable positions

10. Geographical Constraints: Some job seekers are limited by geographical constraints, making it difficult to find positions that match their location preferences1.

Conclusion

The recent LinkedIn survey on job search durations reveals that a significant portion of respondents are experiencing extended job searches. Specifically, 56% of the 1000+ respondents indicated that their job search is taking longer than six months, while 19% reported a duration of 3-4 months, and only 15% said it has been taking them 3-4 months to find a new job. Additionally, 10% of respondents have just started their job search and have been looking for 1-2 months.

Several factors contribute to the prolonged job search for executives in 2025. Companies are leveraging advanced technologies like AI and machine learning to screen candidates more thoroughly, which extends the hiring process. The emphasis on finding candidates who align with company culture and values has grown, making the search for the perfect fit more meticulous and time-consuming. Furthermore, the limited availability of high-level positions, economic and political changes, and evolving nature of executive roles have all contributed to the extended duration of job searches.

To navigate this complex landscape, job seekers must ensure that all aspects of their job search are optimized. This includes having a resume that effectively communicates their qualifications, building out and optimizing profiles on job boards, and knowing how to search for new job openings using variations of titles, industry expertise, salary, years of experience, and geography. Additionally, maintaining an updated and optimized LinkedIn profile is crucial for visibility to companies, hiring managers, and recruiters.

Job Search Coaching for Executives

Global Expansion, Inc. (d.b.a. Job Search Coaching) is a Premier Success Fee-Based Job Search and Global Job Search Company helping Executive Level Job Seekers All Around The World find their next job. We have over 7 years of experience helping executive level professionals secure high-paying roles across the globe. We are not recruiters, we are your personal job search strategists.

Unlike traditional recruiting firms, we don’t work for companies. Our clients are individual job seekers, executives like you who are ready to take the next step in their careers. We specialize in Success Fee-Based Job Search Coaching that accelerates your job search and maximizes your results. See Our Full List of Job Search Clients. Need help - Check Out Our Job Search FAQs