October Insights: Autumn Optimism, hiring predictions and a Wild Squirrel

Hello!

As the leaves begin to fall and the nights draw in, autumn is officially here, bringing with it my latest observations.

October Optimism

I remain optimistic as conversations with agencies and consultancies reveal some positive insights into the months ahead. There is a general belief that more opportunities will arise from now until the end of the year, as clients look to use up budgets with ad-hoc projects.

Playing Catch-up

It’s worth noting that a number of agencies are still playing catch-up, securing new business in an attempt to break even while covering the squeeze on fees from clients. These shops remain cautious in hiring full-time staff without landing a large piece of business.

Hiring Dynamics

Brands choosing to empty the coffers may signal some longer freelance gigs. Additionally, numerous agencies are pitching, and with positive outcomes, I predict an uplift in integrated brand and comms roles, especially in the social, content, and CRM spaces.

As I mentioned in my previous edition, there has been an increase in agencies looking for PR & Comms strategists, as they blend their earned, owned, and paid thinking.

I am super EXCITED to represent a very talented strategy leader looking for a contract or freelance role. This candidate is the epitome of rare and exceptional talent:

🔥 The Swiss Army Knife of Strategy 🔥

⭐ A perfect blend of business thinking with expertise in global B2C & B2B markets.

⭐ Has worked well in both agency and client-side environments.

⭐ Synthesises incredible thinking at the intersection of business consultancy, brand strategy, marketing, and digital innovation.

⭐ Inspires confidence, is a compelling storyteller, and commercially aware.

⭐ A lovely human being, ego-free, and with a good sense of humour.

They currently have some availability for projects. For more info on this Wild Squirrel, drop me an email at lisa@wildsquirrel.co.uk.

CV Master Class - LinkedIn Live

Tuesday 1st October - 1:30PM - 2:30PM

For those who have struggled to find work over the past year, I completely understand, and as always, I strive to help my network.

To help you improve your CVs and be ready for opportunities, I am running a LinkedIn Live session with guidance on format, content, best practices, and of course, specific advice for strategy-focused CVs.

If you’d like to join the session, or need more info, drop me an email at lisa@wildsquirrel.co.uk.

Every day, I post on LinkedIn with tips and advice, including talent acquisition insights, best practices, and new roles. If you’re interested in what’s happening in the planning and strategy talent space, I’d love to hear from you.

Thanks