JOB MARKET TRENDS UPDATE: What we see happening in November 2025.
November’s job market tells a story of stability over acceleration as the month on month figure for November increases, overall it remains low on Augusts 55,009.
While some sectors gained healthy traction, others continue to ease back – signalling that employers are maintaining course, rather than ramping up hiring, as 2025 draws to a close.
Leadership, Legal, and Manufacturing roles lead on the month’s growth, while Admin, Sales, and HR remain cool.
Total job ads
• Sep 50,561 → Oct 49,725 → Nov 50,941
• Oct → Nov change: 1,216 (2.4%)
- Accounting
Accounting remained largely unchanged, edging down slightly from 5,982 to 5,973. The flat result reflects ongoing stability in finance teams – most organisations are holding steady, with little evidence of major expansion as budgets tighten into year-end.
- Admin & Office Support
Admin and Office Support fell 3% from 8,127 to 7,885. Despite remaining one of the largest hiring categories, this dip points to budget restraint and delayed recruitment decisions ahead of the December slowdown. Employers are keeping support teams lean as they manage costs into Q1.
- Legal
Legal was a clear standout, jumping 10% from 2,317 to 2,552 and well above the 2024 level of 2,208. Both law firms and in-house teams appear to be securing talent early – anticipating regulatory projects and compliance cycles heading into 2026, signalling confidence and forward planning.
- Human Resources
HR slipped 7% from 2,855 to 2,648, continuing the year’s trend of cautious workforce management. Most organisations are holding onto existing HR teams but hesitant to expand. This restraint mirrors a “wait and see” mindset until broader business confidence improves.
- ICT
ICT gained 5% (7,017 → 7,351), rebounding from October’s lull. Much of the rise likely stems from short-term project activity and contract extensions before the holidays – still, the movement shows that tech demand remains resilient, even amid uneven conditions.
- CEO / General Management
Leadership hiring continued to show quiet strength, up 8% (515 → 555) and significantly higher than last year’s 392. This growth suggests strategic confidence among boards preparing for succession and transformation in 2026 – a subtle but important signal of long-term optimism.
- Sales
Sales roles dipped 6% (7,164 → 6,732), extending the recent downward trend. Seasonal slowdowns and shifting sourcing strategies are influencing this result – hiring typically tapers as budgets wrap up. Still, the pullback reinforces how employers who rely solely on job ads risk missing high-performing, passive candidates. Partnering with a dedicated sales recruiter ensures success as they access networks and insights employers cannot reach.
- Manufacturing & Transport
The month’s standout performer, Manufacturing & Transport, surged 9.5% (15,748 → 17,245). The continued upward trend reflects supply chain stability, strong fulfilment needs, and consistent labour demand – one of the few categories showing sustained expansion.
Insights & Takeaways
The November data paints a picture of a balanced but selective hiring climate:
- Employers are targeting hires in strategic areas like Legal, ICT, Manufacturing, and Leadership rather than expanding broadly.
- Softer results in Admin, HR, and Sales show that efficiency and cost control remain front of mind.
- Stability in Accounting and gains in leadership suggest that businesses are preparing for a more confident 2026.
In short: momentum exists – it’s just focused, not frantic.
What This Means for Employers
- Plan now for Q1 moves: With Legal, ICT, and Leadership hiring heating up, competition for talent will intensify early in 2026. Strategically, now is a good time to start the secure of key hires before the January rush .
- Retain top support talent: Admin and HR may be quieter now, but experienced professionals in these areas will be harder to replace once activity rebounds.
- Use the lull strategically: Review team structures, contractor reliance, and succession plans while hiring pressure is low.
- Monitor Manufacturing and Logistics: Sustained growth could strain labour supply through the summer peak.
What This Means for Jobseekers
- Focus on the growth zones: Legal, ICT, Manufacturing, and Leadership roles are expanding – update your profile and connect with recruiters in these sectors.
- Differentiate in slower markets: Admin, HR, and Sales candidates face more competition; clear, metrics-based achievements can help you stand out.
- Invest in upskilling: Use the year-end lull for certifications or professional development to strengthen early-2026 opportunities.
- Network now, not later: Proactive outreach pays off.
Year-on-Year Snapshot – compared to November 2024:
- Legal: +15%
- CEO/GM: +42%
- ICT: +0.2%
- Manufacturing & Transport: Sustained upward trajectory (now at 17,245 roles)
- HR: –4%
- Sales: +12% (but easing from recent highs)
- Accounting: +5%
Consideration of the year-on-year view underscores that 2025 is closing not with a boom, but with a balanced recalibration – growth in strategic roles offset by restraint in support and people functions.
Bottom Line
November’s job market isn’t booming, but it’s steady, intentional, and forward-looking. Employers are sharpening their focus – prioritising key talent and operational readiness. For professionals, it’s a time to prepare, position, and participate – because when confidence returns in early 2026, those ready to move will lead the rebound.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the author accepts no liability for any changes, loss, or damage arising from reliance on its content. Readers should seek independent legal advice and updates, before acting on any matter discussed in this document.