Why Job Hunting Is Taking Longer Than Ever

These days, landing a job takes more time—and more patience—than many people expect. Despite a relatively healthy labor market, with unemployment at 4.1%, a growing number of job seekers are finding themselves stuck in the search.

A recent report from Career Group found that 1 in 5 job seekers have been looking for 10 to 12 months or longer. And they’re not alone. A survey of 765 candidates across industries showed a wide range of search timelines:

30% have been job hunting for 4 to 6 months 23% for 2 to 3 months 17% for up to a month 7% for 7 to 9 months 20% for nearly a year or more

In short, it’s not unusual to spend several months or more in the job market, even if you’re experienced and qualified.

A Frustrating Process—With Few Responses

For many, the toughest part is the silence. Submitting dozens (or hundreds) of applications with little to no response can be mentally draining. In fact, a 2024 Harris Poll found that 40% of unemployed professionals didn’t have a single interview all year.

It’s no surprise that job seekers describe the process as lonely and discouraging.

What’s Slowing Things Down?

Both candidates and employers seem to be playing a role in the delays.

Candidates: High Hopes, Mixed Signals

Some job seekers may be limiting their own options—often unintentionally. Many have high expectations around salary or are focused only on very specific roles. A 2024 survey by the New York Fed found that the average minimum salary job seekers were willing to accept was $81,500.

Others are backing out late in the process. One 2025 study found that nearly 30% of Gen Z and younger millennials have ghosted employers after final interviews—whether due to nerves, better offers, or just second thoughts.

Susan Levine, CEO of Career Group, says that flexibility matters:

“Careers aren’t always an upward climb—success is a squiggly path.”

Employers: Ghost Jobs and Slow Hiring

But candidates aren’t the only ones contributing to the problem.

Many job postings aren’t even real. According to a 2024 report from MyPerfectResume, 81% of recruiters say their company has posted “ghost jobs”—roles that are already filled or never open in the first place. About 36% admit that one in four of their listings fall into that category.

For applicants, that means time wasted on jobs that don’t exist—and more silence after hitting “apply.”

The Takeaway

The modern job search can be long, competitive, and full of dead ends. Many candidates are doing everything right and still struggling to get traction.

Being open-minded, flexible, and well-prepared can make a difference—but even then, the process often takes longer than anyone would like.

If you’re still searching: you’re not alone. The system is far from perfect, and patience really is part of the process.

Explore More The Best And Worst College Degrees To Land A Job in 2025 Remote Work Has Created The Infinite Workday