As UK unemployment hits 1.8 million and job vacancies fall below pre-pandemic levels, competition for roles has intensified dramatically. Ed Vigars, Operations Director at leading HR and recruitment specialist Gi Group UK, urges candidates to rethink their approach if they want to stay ahead.
“A multi-channel job search approach is key,” said Ed. “Engage in active job board searches, passive visibility by uploading your CV, and building relationships with recruiters. Take initiative by targeting employers directly, this demonstrates proactiveness and could make you stand out in a crowded job market.”
The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal a labour market under pressure. The estimated number of payrolled employees dropped by 155,000 in the year to November. The data also showed a 43,000 drop in employees on payrolls in December – representing the biggest monthly drop since November 2020.
The disparity highlights the intense competition for fewer roles. Many companies are demonstrating curiosity about the talent available but remain hesitant to make firm hiring decisions. This caution stems from ongoing economic suppression that continue to restrain spending and recruitment activity across various industries.
With an influx of people coming out of the workforce, and stiff competition for roles as evidenced by ONS reporting 2.5 people now competing for every one vacancy, Ed has urged candidates to be resilient. Last year, Standout CV found that on average it takes 16 and a half weeks to land a job from the moment a person updates their CV to receiving and accepting the job offer. With UK unemployment at a four-year high, the resilience of jobseekers will be tested.
According to LinkedIn, last year the platform reported that, globally, 61 million people search for jobs weekly and the platform hosts 30 million roles annually. Additionally, Indeed reports that it has more than 570,000 jobs added to it each month – over 6 million a year.
“Rejection can be disheartening, but resilience is vital. Approach your job search with the mindset that it is a job in itself,” says Ed. “Set realistic weekly targets, aiming to apply for five to 20 roles, depending on your skillset and circumstances. Safeguarding your mental health is essential. Persistent rejection can impact your wellbeing, so seek support through the many free mental health services available, such as Mind or the NHS mental health hub.
“A good recruiter should not only provide career guidance but also empathise with and support your wellbeing throughout the process.”
One way in which candidates can look after their mental health during the job-hunting process is through volunteering for causes they care about. While this does help fill the time, it also helps people connect in a different way, and may even offer them a steer into what role or industry they want to go into next.
Ed continued: “Volunteering won’t just help bridge the employment gap in your CV, it’ll show your dedication and versatility.”
Gi Group UK is headquartered in Chesterfield in the Midlands. Parented by Gi Group Holding, Gi Group UK employs close to 500 people in 2026 from 20 office locations. Working across manufacturing, logistics, food and drink and many other sectors, Gi Group UK is uniquely committed to the creation of social and economic value for both employers and candidates alike
