How can employers remain ahead of the game?
Employers are advised to prepare for more job applications in the coming year as new reports indicate that employees are planning to apply for more jobs in 2026.
Findings from recruitment agency Aerotek revealed that 48% of jobseekers are planning to apply for 26 or more jobs before being hired in the first quarter of 2026.
Another 23% say they will apply for 100 jobs or more.
Separate data from Robert Half revealed that 38% of employees are planning to look for a new job in the first half of the year, up from 29% a year ago.
The findings likely signal the end of job hugging, which took over workplaces in 2025 and plunged turnover rates globally.
"Many workers felt the need to stay put in 2025, but we're beginning to see signs of a thaw as we head into the new year," said Dawn Fay, operational president of Robert Half.
Impact on hiring teams
The looming movement of employees is expected to drive more job applications for hiring teams in the coming year, which Aerotek pointed out could make maintaining a positive candidate experience challenging.
"Appealing to top applicants requires organisations to optimise how they process applications and prioritise timely communication as well as genuine engagement throughout the hiring process," it said on its website.
It further advised employers to refine job descriptions to reduce irrelevant applications and make it easier to focus on qualified talent.
It also called for further utilisation of pre-screening and scheduling technology in order to manage high-volume processes.
"In today's competitive market, adapting to increased application volume is not just about efficiency — it's about creating a positive, engaging hiring experience that attracts and retains the best candidates," it said.
"Employers who embrace these changes will be better positioned to build strong teams and maintain a reputable brand."
Addressing new expectations
In addition to improving hiring processes, employers are encouraged to look at what is driving employees to find new workplaces.
Aerotek's findings, which polled US and Canadian respondents, revealed that pay is the top reason (38%) why employees would accept a new role. Other reasons include:
- Job security (25%)
- Opportunity to learn new skills (10%)
- Potential for career advancement (12%)
"With pay becoming a stronger focal point for job seekers, it will be important for companies to update their compensation strategies," Aerotek advised.
"Ensuring pay packages are not only competitive but also transparent and fair is the first step."
It also suggested introducing "creative compensation strategies", such as signing and attendance bonuses, as well as performance-based rewards.
"These incentives can be particularly effective for attracting candidates who are weighing multiple offers, such as those exploring jobs in the skilled trades," it said.
