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Overview of the doda Job Change Recruitment Ratio Report for December 2025

The job change recruitment ratio, published by Persol Career Co., Ltd. under the brand doda, reflects the balance of supply and demand in the mid-career hiring landscape. This ratio is calculated by dividing the number of job openings by the number of job seekers registered with doda, yielding valuable insights into the state of the job market.

Key Findings for December 2025

• - Recruitment Ratio: 2.96 times (an increase of 0.26 points from the previous month, but a decrease of 0.19 points from the same month last year)
• - Job Openings: Increased by 2.6% from the previous month, and by 6.1% from the same month last year.
• - Job Seekers: Decreased by 6.4% from the previous month, but increased by 12.9% from the same month last year.

The number of job openings saw an increase across 11 out of 12 sectors, with the retail and distribution industries witnessing the most significant growth. The retail sector showed a 5.9% increase compared to the previous month, with large supermarkets actively hiring amid rising domestic prices and changes in consumer behavior. This surge is primarily driven by efforts to develop new customer segments and expand into overseas markets.

The distribution sector is also adapting to the growing demand for e-commerce, focusing on hiring truck drivers and warehouse management personnel to meet increased logistics needs. Meanwhile, the taxi industry faces challenges due to a driver shortage even as app-based services gain popularity. Major taxi companies are experiencing substantial demand for corporate transport services due to the rise in international conferences and sports events.

Trends and Future Outlook

As expected, the number of job seekers typically declines as the year comes to a close. In December, this trend led to a drop in the number of job seekers that was more pronounced than the increase in job openings, resulting in a higher recruitment ratio. However, year-on-year, the number of job seekers rose by 12.9% due to persistent concerns over rising costs of living, prompting many to reassess their current employment situations. Furthermore, many large companies are revising their business portfolios and undergoing organizational restructures, which have also led to increased uptake of early retirement programs.

Looking ahead to January 2026 and beyond, although the recruitment ratio is stabilizing from previously high levels, the ongoing shortage of labor fueled by demographic shifts and changing work values, particularly among younger generations, suggests that competition for talent will intensify. Job seekers are expected to increase, propelled by pre-job activities associated with the new fiscal year and hiring in April. According to seasonal trends, while demand for job openings is likely to remain high, the growth rate of job seekers may exceed that of job openings, causing the recruitment ratio to drop moving forward.

Expert Commentary

In the words of Takaumi Sakurai, the editor of doda, the trends we are observing point to significant fluctuations in the job market driven by various external factors and changing employee expectations. As companies navigate these shifts, adaptability will be key, especially for those in sectors experiencing rapid growth.

For further exploration of this data, including detailed breakdowns by sector and role, please refer to the complete doda recruitment ratio report.

About doda

doda boasts an extensive platform featuring job listings, recruitment agents, and the largest job fairs in Japan, all aimed at effectively matching job seekers with potential employers. The slogan, “Every day of work should be a good day,” encapsulates doda’s commitment to supporting employment transitions for many aspiring professionals.