A Tougher Job Market Pushes Candidates To Submit More Applications and Focus on Building New Skills

Job Seeker Survey: Q4 2025

In the latest Job Seeker Survey, we gathered insights from over 1,500 recent applicants about their job search experience this year. A majority reported that the process required more effort than expected, leaving many less optimistic about finding roles that align with their goals and skills. To adapt, candidates are prioritizing skill development and exploring opportunities in new industries.

The Q4 survey highlights how job seekers are adjusting to shifts and what companies can do to attract and retain talent. From adjusting recruitment strategies to supporting career growth, these insights can help companies better meet evolving expectations.

Explore The Survey Highlights

Adjusting to Larger Candidate Pools Addressing Skills Gap Increased Focus on Pay

Adjusting To Larger Candidate Pools

In a slower hiring environment, job seekers are submitting more applications and increasing their efforts. As the volume of candidates grows, employers may need to adjust their hiring practices to identify the right person for their team. To attract top talent, companies should streamline their application process and focus on clear, prompt communication and genuine engagement with candidates.

Addressing Skills Gap

To become better candidates and workers, job seekers are prioritizing skill development, with many turning to employer-based training. They also plan to explore career options in a new industry. Being able to spot quality applicants with transferable skills can help companies create a diverse and flexible workforce.

Increased Focus On Pay

In Q1 2025, 28 percent of survey respondents said pay was the most important factor for accepting a new job. This number rose steadily each quarter, ultimately reaching 38 percent. How did other motivators fare and how can employers act on these changes?

Why Candidate Experience Is Your Competitive Edge

Respondents expect to apply for more jobs before getting hired, leading employers to receive more applications per posting. Handling this higher volume makes it harder to maintain a positive candidate experience. Appealing to top applicants requires organizations to optimize how they process applications and prioritize timely communication as well as genuine engagement throughout the hiring process.

Learn more about the impact of increased application volume.

Job Seekers Want New Skills and Career Growth — Is Your Organization Prepared?

Having opportunities to add new skills is a significant motivator for accepting a new job and many respondents plan to rely on employer-based training to expand their skill set.

See how employers can attract top talent in an evolving hiring market.

In an Unpredictable Job Market, Pay Leads the Way

More than half of survey respondents reported a decline in their financial situation compared to Q1 2025. Additionally, job seekers increasingly cited pay as an important factor in accepting new employment throughout the year.

About the Research

Aerotek’s Job Seeker Survey was conducted as an independent online survey to understand what job seekers want. More than 1,500 job seekers were asked about their career ambitions and employer preferences. Respondents were located in the U.S. and Canada and completed the survey in October 2025. The survey targeted job seekers who have applied for work from September 2025 to October 2025 and were seeking jobs in the sectors Aerotek serves, including manufacturing, robotics and automation, facilities and maintenance, distribution and logistics, construction and other industries. When you need help building and managing your workforce, contact us.