When the freelance market changes pace
Navigating a more considered hiring market.
After nearly 11 years in advertising recruitment, I've realised that every market has its own personality.
Some are fast-paced, full of confidence and keep you constantly on your toes.
Others... test your patience (and your inbox refresh button).
The last couple of years have definitely felt different.
It's not just that there are fewer freelance briefs, or fewer opportunities in general, than many of us became accustomed to. It's the pace. Hiring feels more considered. Budgets are scrutinised. Decisions take longer. Even when everyone agrees on the right person, getting to the finish line isn't always straightforward.
When I first started, a freelance brief could land in the morning and be filled by the afternoon. Now, those speedy "brief in, placement out" days feel like a fond memory - a bit like having a completely clear inbox!
One thing this market has reminded me is that experience doesn't mean you stop adapting. If anything, it's made me listen more, ask better questions and appreciate that recruitment has always been about more than filling jobs. It's about understanding people, businesses and the confidence behind every hiring decision.
I genuinely believe confidence will return. Great agencies will keep growing, people will keep finding new opportunities, and the market will find its rhythm again.
Until then, we'll keep doing what recruiters do best: adapting, supporting people through uncertainty, and celebrating every successful placement-because each one feels just that little bit more hard-earned.
I'd love to hear how others across advertising are finding the market? Whether you're hiring, looking for talent, or navigating your own next move. Are you seeing the same changes, or is your experience telling a different story?
Work with us
If you’re hiring in Client Services, or thinking about how your team needs to evolve and would like get a view on the market, get in touch today for a confidential chat.
