We recently completed a survey across LinkedIn focusing on “How Long Has Your Job Search Been Taking So Far? You May Need to Adjust Your Expectations.

From 1300+ survey respondents:

Forty-Nine (49%) said they have been looking for more than 6 months.
Twenty One (21%) said they have been looking for 3-4 months.
Sixteen (16%) said they have been looking for 1-2 months.
Fourteen (14%) said they have been looking for 5-6 months.

Nearly half of all respondents have been job hunting for over six months. That is a dramatic increase from just the beginning of the year where the average job search was taking 3-4 months.

That’s a significant amount of time and it highlights just how competitive and complex today’s job market has become. Even those in the 3–6 month range (35% combined) are likely feeling the pressure and uncertainty that comes with a prolonged search.

Executive job searches are taking longer now in the 2nd half of 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.

While this leads to more accurate hiring decisions, it also extends the time required to complete the recruitment process. Additionally, 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.

Another major factor, the uncertainty in the economy, tariffs, and interest rates. Uncertainty causes inaction

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 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 along with significant increased competition. 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.

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