For the first time since 2020, accounting job postings have fallen below pre-pandemic levels. That's an important signal to watch.

Indeed Job Openings

Take a look at the following chart:

• Software Developers saw a huge hiring spike post-2020, fueled by demand for remote work solutions and tech growth. But in late 2022 and all throughout 2023, the sector was hit hard by layoffs and hiring freezes. The green line shows that sharp collapse.

• Nursing also surged, driven by healthcare demands. But since then, it’s been on a slow, steady decline as the pandemic receded.

• Accounting job openings took a sharp climb up, then trended down with a seasonal pattern. Hiring ramped up from July through March each year, then dipped during the summer. 

In March 2025, accounting job postings took a steep drop — falling below pre-pandemic levels for the first time.

Why Did This Happen?

These hiring surges in 2021 were driven by pent-up demand showing itself as lockdowns eased combined with low interest rates and federal stimulus that were used to fight off the effects of the lockdown.  Public Accounting firms were growing top-line revenue quickly at that time, and headcount went along with it.

Now that sugar high appears to be worn off.  Does this mean that we regress to pre-pandemic levels?  Or does it mean that the job market is going to have a hangover?  That's yet to be determined.

What You Should Do Now

This return to normal levels means more competition for fewer roles than job seekers have seen for the past three years. If you find yourself in the market, it's time to stand out.

• Leverage Your Network: The best jobs are filled through referrals. Reach out to people in your network, like former classmates, colleagues, professors, and mentors. Let them know you’re looking.
• Polish Your LinkedIn and Resume: In a tighter job market, you need to look like an easy “yes.” Update LinkedIn and your resume so that they align with your latest info. Make sure you're telling a compelling story that leads to your next role.
• Prepare for Public Accounting Hiring Season (July-March): Firms will still need talent. The Indeed data suggests that the next major hiring wave will start in July again.  If that's true, now is the time to sharpen your interview skills, reconnect with your university's career center (they help you even if you already graduated!), mark your calendar for fall career events, and be ready to apply early on Handshake, if that's available.

Preparedness is Freedom

Yes, the job market is cooling. That doesn’t mean opportunities are gone, but it means that the advantage is tipping back from candidates to employers. 

Those who are best prepared will rise to the top.