January is traditionally one of the busiest months for the recruitment industry. While many businesses focus on the administrative burden of replacing staff who resigned over the holidays, smart principals see a different picture. They see an opportunity.
The first quarter of the year is the only time when the “passive” candidate market becomes truly active. Top-tier Personal Assistants and Executive Assistants who are usually locked into long-term roles are suddenly available.
If you are looking to hire a Private PA or Executive Assistant, this is your window. Here is why the market moves so fast in January – and how you can use it to your advantage.
Why January looks different
January consistently brings a shift in senior PA and EA availability. Many professionals use the end of the year as a natural decision point, choosing to reassess their role once the annual cycle has closed.
The result is that experienced assistants who are normally settled and off-market become open to new opportunities at the same time. For principals, this creates a rare moment where depth, quality, and timing align. You gain access to candidates with proven track records who would not typically be available mid-year.
Upgrading, not just replacing
When a key staff member leaves in January, the natural reaction is panic. You might feel the need to fill the gap quickly to keep your life or business running smoothly.
But this is the wrong approach. The influx of high-quality candidates means you should look to improve your support structure, not just maintain it. Because of the depth of the talent pool right now, you can afford to be specific about your requirements.
Do you need more than a diary manager? Look for a PA who can handle private household projects or event management. Do you need commercial support? Look for an EA with business operations experience who is looking for a new challenge. The point is this: use the January market to raise your standards, not just replace like-for-like.
Decisiveness is your competitive advantage
The quality of candidates in January is high, but the competition is equally fierce. The principals who succeed in this market are not those who rush – they are those who are decisive.
They know what good looks like, they trust their instincts, and when the right candidate appears, they act.
If you find a PA who matches your needs, back your judgement. Review profiles when they arrive rather than letting them sit in an inbox. Make space in your schedule to meet candidates immediately. And if the chemistry is right and the skills match – make an offer.
Let’s be honest: waiting feels safer. But safer doesn’t win you the best candidate. Waiting even a few days can mean losing a top candidate to another principal who was simply ready to move faster.
The window does not last
This surge is temporary. By March or April, the best candidates have settled into new roles and the market returns to its usual rhythm – one where you have to work much harder to headhunt the best people.
If you have been thinking about hiring a new Personal Assistant, or if you need to replace a team member who has just resigned, do not wait. The talent you need is available right now.
Secure the right PA for the year ahead
At 19 London, we are already working with a fresh intake of exceptional Personal Assistants and Executive Assistants who are ready to start immediately.
Contact us today to discuss your requirements. We will connect you with the ideal candidate to support your life and business in 2026.