Job seekers should understand that while having a well-presented resume is crucial, the timing of sending out applications also plays a significant role. The recruitment firm Adecco advises that the optimum time to submit applications is between Tuesday and Thursday, specifically before 9 a.m.
“Applications sent between Tuesday and Thursday, notably first thing in the morning (before 9 a.m.), tend to be the most effective,” states the human resources company. “These times avoid the usual email backlog at the beginning and end of the week and hit inboxes when recruiting managers are more available to review profiles carefully,” according to the company’s insights.
It is advisable to avoid submitting applications on Mondays and Fridays:
“Avoiding Monday and Friday is a clear recommendation; Mondays usually involve absences and internal replanning, while Fridays are associated with last-minute urgencies and end-of-week focus. Weekends and extended holidays should be entirely avoided since the risk of the CV being forgotten in the ‘Monday pile’ is too high,” explains Adecco.
The company emphasizes that “in a highly competitive market, timing can be a real advantage.”
Adecco shares internal data and observes international trends, revealing that “the day and time a resume is sent directly influence the likelihood of it being read and leading to contact.”

Professionals are being sought for customer service, logistics operators, restocking, packaging, and other roles. The vacancies are spread across various regions of the country, with a higher concentration in Lisbon and Porto.
Notícias ao Minuto | 14:50 – 04/11/2025
“The effectiveness of an application doesn’t solely rely on the resume’s content. It also depends on how, when, and where it’s sent. Sending the CV around noon or at the end of the day might be less effective, as the screening processes are already underway. Additionally, the application should be accompanied by an updated online presence, particularly on LinkedIn, and an organized record of submissions and follow-ups,” adds Adecco Portugal.
Considering a Job Change? Prepare Yourself
The recruitment firm advises those contemplating a job change that “preparation should start sufficiently in advance.”
“The average professional transition time is around four months, and it is advisable to start the search at least two to three months beforehand. This planning allows for addressing training gaps and preparing for interviews with greater confidence,” as noted on the Adecco Portugal website.

The Bank of Portugal (BdP) forecasts a slowdown in employment growth and a stabilization of unemployment rates in the country until 2027.
Lusa | 13:05 – 07/10/2025



