By Louisa Smyth, published 11 November 2025
The latest UK labour market figures have confirmed what many of us in recruitment have been hearing from clients for months, things have slowed down. Unemployment is rising, vacancies are falling, and competition for jobs is increasing. It’s undoubtedly a challenging landscape, but from my perspective, it’s exactly the kind of market where a well-connected recruiter can make all the difference.
What the numbers are showing is clear. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the UK unemployment rate rose to 5.0% between July and September 2025, up from 4.8% the previous quarter, the highest level since 2021. Job vacancies fell by another 9,000, down to 717,000, marking the 39th consecutive drop. The unemployment-to-vacancy ratio now sits at 2.4, meaning more people are chasing fewer roles. HMRC payroll data also highlights that fewer people have been in work over most of the past year, indicating that businesses are continuing to rein in hiring.
From where I sit, the market has cooled. Rising unemployment and falling vacancies show a shift in momentum, and slowing wage growth alongside weaker hiring signals suggest wider economic impacts. While the ONS advises caution over short-term data, the trend is unmistakable, and there’s speculation the Bank of England may cut interest rates in December to stimulate the economy.
This is precisely why the right recruiter matters more than ever. Opportunities haven’t disappeared - they’ve just become harder to find. At Sheridan Maine, I’ve seen these cycles before. Our strength lies in our network, relationships, and our ability to uncover the very best talent and opportunities, even when the market tightens. Clients have been telling me it’s tougher to find the right people, and these latest figures simply confirm that reality. In a shrinking market, having a proactive, connected partner makes all the difference.
Looking ahead, yes, the market is more competitive and selective, but that doesn’t mean opportunity has vanished. It simply requires a more strategic approach. At Sheridan Maine, we remain focused on helping our clients and candidates move forward with confidence, clarity, and the right connections. Because no matter the market, the right partnership will always give you the edge.
