We have talked about companies delaying their hiring plans because of concerns about the stability of the economy, but there is another reason to hire now: The First Movers. 

In the wake of the challenging 2024 economic climate, a significant shift is underway in the labor market. Top-performing employees, some disillusioned by their current employers’ responses to market hardships, are actively seeking opportunities with organizations that are proactively securing talent, known as “first movers.”​ These high performers are often the first to recognize when a company’s trajectory no longer aligns with their growth, and they’re quick to act while others hesitate. 

“Staffing and recruiting companies have shed individual contributors under the pressure of a tough market over the last year or so,” says Amy Carlisle, Managing Partner at XPG Recruit. “The companies that are playing it safe are hiring back those types of employees, but the smart companies are taking advantage of the opportunity to secure first movers and are upgrading their senior and executive level employees as well.” 

“First mover” employees are proactive professionals who actively seek out and engage with companies that offer an opportunity to achieve their career goals. Their key characteristics include:  

• Proactive: Actively seeking new opportunities and staying informed about industry trends.​ 

• Adaptable: Embracing change and thriving in dynamic work environments and seeking roles that offer creative challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge projects. 

• Values-Driven: Many are driven not just by compensation, but by purpose and alignment with company values. After seeing the “bad side” of leadership during the tough 2024 economy—mass layoffs, broken promises, and poor communication—they’re seeking companies with stronger cultures, transparency, and empathy. 

• Career Optimizers: They’re not afraid to leave a “comfortable” role if the company is stagnant or no longer serves their professional goals. Whether it’s better work-life balance, professional development, or leadership opportunities, they move toward growth. 

“We are seeing a jump in the number of high-quality candidates reaching out to make a move,” says Kate Capps, Executive Recruiter at XPG Recruit. “They are taking a very thoughtful approach to the job market and are willing to make an emotional investment in the next chapter of their career. They have proven success and are looking for the right leadership and the right company that can partner with them to reach the next level.”  

The best talent doesn’t wait—they move first, and they take their track record of success with them. Their ability to consistently deliver results, build strong networks, and drive impact doesn’t stay behind when they leave—it travels with them. As a result, companies that move early to attract these first movers aren’t just filling roles—they’re inheriting momentum, fresh ideas, and proven performance that can elevate teams and shift business outcomes almost immediately.