The CV-Library Q4 2025 report paints an upbeat picture of the UK jobs market. Vacancies are climbing for the first time in six quarters, 71% of employers are planning recruitment growth in 2026, and nationally, confidence is returning. That is encouraging, and some of it rings true.
But at Aspire Jobs, working across Dorset and Hampshire every day, our experience on the ground is more complicated than any national headline suggests.
January 2026 was our worst month since Covid. February picked up, March is looking strong, and going forward it is honestly anyone's guess. That kind of unpredictability is tough for businesses trying to plan and candidates trying to stay positive.
Here is what we are really seeing locally:
- Senior candidates are struggling badly. Experienced, capable people with strong track records are finding very few opportunities at their level.
- Younger candidates are equally stuck. Getting a foot on the ladder has not been this hard for a long time.
- AI screening tools are causing real problems, rejecting strong candidates over minor gaps rather than recognising the 99% match. Senior professionals are being hit hardest by this.
- Too many candidates are hearing absolutely nothing back after applying or interviewing. It is demoralising and it damages your employer brand.
- Some employers assume rising unemployment means it is their market. It is not that simple. Good people are staying put, particularly those settled in roles for two or more years. Businesses being overly specific about requirements, while not aligning salary with reality, are struggling to hire.
- Candidates are doing far more research before applying. They want to understand flexibility, culture, progression and stability. Generic job adverts are increasingly being ignored. The businesses attracting the best people are those that can clearly explain who they are and what the role looks like day to day.
On the positive side, we are seeing green shoots. A few more roles are coming through, and sectors like engineering and construction are busy. We have recently filled a Data Analyst role in Poole, a Quality Support Administrator and Stores Operative in Fordingbridge, an Electrical Project Manager, a Trainee Insurance Account Handler, and a Legal Cashier in Ringwood.
But with unemployment widely expected to hit 5.5% this year and global pressures from trade shifts and rising oil prices adding further uncertainty, this is not the time to sit and wait.
Whether you are hiring or looking for your next role, a straight conversation about your local market will always beat a national statistic. Give us a call.