If you're aiming to kickstart 2026 with a new role, a leading careers professional has issued a timely warning: the rest of January is critical for preparation. According to the expert, acting now can significantly boost your prospects in what is predicted to be a key hiring window.
Why February is the Prime Hiring Month
Molly Shapley, founder of the careers and youth empowerment platform Tools for Tomorrow, has identified February as the optimal time to apply for new positions. In a recent TikTok video, she explained that companies typically finalise their annual budgets in the new year, leading to a surge in available roles.
"February is the best time to apply for jobs," Shapley stated. "There is going to be a huge influx of jobs in February because companies have signed off on their hiring budgets for the year."
The Crucial January Task: In-Depth Research
Shapley's key advice is to use the remainder of January not for mass applications, but for strategic groundwork. She urges candidates to thoroughly research companies they are interested in. This allows for tailored application materials that stand out to recruiters.
"You have all of this time to research the companies you want to work for, and you can reach out directly to those companies before they hire," she advised. "Why? Because if your name is already in their heads, they might not even put the job application out there."
While making early contact can get your name recognised, it doesn't guarantee an offer. A polished CV and strong interview performance remain essential.
Get Application-Ready: Essential CV Tips
To capitalise on the February opportunity, Shapley stresses being prepared: "Please have your cover letter done, please have your CV updated and ready to go. Be specific, use examples, do all of that stuff."
Here are key steps to ensure your CV is effective:
Tailor Your CV: Customise it for each application, highlighting relevant skills and experience uncovered in your research.
Be Concise and Clear: Aim for one page, two maximum. Use a professional layout with bullet points and avoid cluttered design.
Lead with a Strong Profile: Start with a compelling summary of your key skills and career goals.
Focus on Achievements: Under each previous role, emphasise concrete accomplishments over simple duties.
Proofread Meticulously: Check for errors and ensure all information is accurate and honest.
The expert's guidance resonated widely online, with many commenters expressing gratitude. One user replied, "Noted, thanks for this gem," while others shared hopeful sentiments about their February job search prospects.
