A recent poll we ran on LinkedIn asked: What’s the biggest factor holding you back from making a career move right now?
The top response by far was “lack of suitable opportunities.” 63% of professionals told us this was the main reason they haven’t taken the next step in their career.
This reflects a broader challenge we see often, especially in the accounting and finance space: professionals are open to moving, but the right role just isn’t showing up.
So why is this happening and what can you do about it?
1. Why It’s Hard to Find the Right Fit
In theory, there are thousands of jobs out there. But “suitable” means more than matching a job title.
For most professionals, a suitable role is one that:
- Aligns with their skills and long-term goals
- Offers a balance between challenge and support
- Sits within a company culture that values their contribution
- Reflects fair compensation and flexibility
Roles like this may not come around often - or when they do, they’re snapped up quickly or not publicly advertised. This can make the search feel slow, frustrating, or even discouraging.
2. The Hidden Job Market is Real
One thing many professionals don’t realise is just how much hiring happens outside of public job boards. Many employers rely on referrals or recruitment partners to find the right people before going public with a vacancy.
If your current search strategy is limited to browsing job boards or waiting for the perfect role to appear, you could be missing out on a huge portion of the market.
3. It’s Okay to Look Even If You’re Not Ready to Move
Sometimes, the right opportunity comes when you’re not actively looking, but you’re curious about what is out there. Having quiet conversations, staying informed about market trends, or understanding your value in the current landscape can all be helpful steps.
You don’t have to commit to a career move to explore what’s out there.
4. What You Can Do Right Now
If you’re in that 63% who feel stuck due to a lack of opportunities, here are a few practical suggestions:
- Update your CV and LinkedIn: Even small changes can help you surface in the right searches.
- Expand your network: Reach out to peers, mentors, or recruiters who specialise in your space.
- Stay informed: Understanding where the demand is growing can help you refocus your search.
- Be open to different formats: Fixed term or contract roles may offer a stepping stone into a company or sector you hadn’t considered.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to career growth. Sometimes it’s about timing, sometimes it’s about visibility, and sometimes, it’s about asking the right questions about what “suitable” really looks like for you.
If this resonates with where you’re at in your career, take it as a signal not to give up, but to adjust your approach. The right role may not be obvious, but it could be closer than you think.