In 2025, we’re noticing a growing trend among candidates that’s raising eyebrows for employers and recruiters alike, and it’s time to talk about it.

There has been a noticeable increase in the number of job seekers who come to us saying they want a new job, but when it comes to being flexible, responsive, or genuinely open to exploring opportunities during the recruitment process, they stall.

Whether it’s limited availability to interview, hesitation to consider slightly different roles to what they have their mind set on, or holding out for a “perfect” job that may not exist — this lack of flexibility can seriously hold you back.

So, if you’re serious about making a career move this year, here’s why staying open and adaptable can make all the difference.

The Market Is Moving — Are You?

Right now, the property and real estate job market is active. Agencies are hiring across sales, property management, leasing, admin, BDM roles and more. But while jobs are available, employers are being more selective — looking not just for skill, but cultural fit and attitude.

Candidates who are keen, responsive, adaptable, and ready to engage quickly often move through the process much faster — and land better roles.

Why? Because hiring managers want people who are:

• Genuinely motivated to work
• Open to learning or trying new things
• Respectful of the process and people involved

In contrast, when candidates delay responses, struggle to make time for interviews, or are overly rigid in what they will or won’t consider, employers may move on, even if they have the right experience on paper.

Availability Matters More Than You Think

If you’re job hunting but not available to interview within a few days’ notice, or aren’t responding to calls or emails promptly, it sends a message, even unintentionally.

It may suggest:

• You’re not serious about making a move
• You’re hard to engage or communicate with
• You may behave similarly once hired

We get it — you might be working full-time, managing kids, or juggling commitments. But being transparent and proactive about your availability makes the process smoother for everyone.

Tip: If you’re actively looking, try to set aside a time block each week for interviews or recruiter catch-ups, even if it’s after hours or via Zoom.

Be Open to Slightly Different Roles

Another common trend: candidates saying they want a new job — but only if it ticks every single box from day one.

The reality is, great opportunities don’t always look perfect at first glance. Sometimes:

• A sales support role can evolve into a sales agent role in 6 months
• A smaller agency may offer more hands-on growth than a bigger one
• A sideways move can give you the work-life balance you’re craving

By staying open to roles that may differ slightly from what you’ve done before — or even considering contract, temp or part-time work — you increase your chances of getting a foot in the door, building experience, and proving your value.

Recruiters Are Your Advocates — Help Us Help You

When we connect with a candidate who’s clear about what they want and open to ideas, it makes it easier for us to match them to the right employer.

But if communication is slow, you ghost our interviews, your preferences are rigid, or interest fades mid-process, it limits what we can do to support your goals.

If you’ve reached out to a recruiter, show up ready to engage. That doesn’t mean saying yes to everything, but it does mean being open-minded and responsive.

The best opportunities often go to those who are prepared, proactive, and open. If you’re truly ready for a new role in the property industry, your flexibility could be your biggest asset.

✅ Be available to interview (and let us know in advance if you can’t make a set interview time)

✅ Be open to different role types or agency sizes

✅ Be responsive and ready to explore

That kind of attitude doesn’t just make you more employable — it makes you more likely to find a role that actually suits you long-term.

Ready to Get Started?

We’re currently recruiting across a range of real estate and property roles in South Australia, so reach out for a confidential chat if you’re open and ready to take the next step in your career.