Mynavi Announces Q1 2026 Summary: Record High Starting Salaries and Rising Job Applications for Permanent Employees

Mynavi Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Shunsuke Awai), operator of the comprehensive job change site 'Mynavi Tenshoku,' has released its Jan-Mar 2026 summary report on 'Average Starting Salary Trends for Permanent Employees' and 'Job Openings/Applications Trend Report.' This study investigates trends in average starting salaries (categorized by inexperienced and experienced roles) and the volume of job postings and applications on the platform.

[TOPICS] - The average starting salary for permanent employees in March 2026 reached 5.11 million yen, the highest since tracking began. - The ratio of job openings for experienced candidates reached 46.7% in March 2026, a record high. Companies are increasingly prioritizing 'ready-to-work' talent. - Both job postings and application numbers are on the rise, driven by industries such as [Finance & Insurance] and [Real Estate, Construction & Facilities].

[Survey Overview] In March 2026, the overall average starting salary reached 5.11 million yen. Specifically, starting salaries for inexperienced roles rose for two consecutive months, reaching 4.57 million yen in March, pushing up the overall average. By industry, [Finance & Insurance] led with 6.38 million yen, followed by [IT, Telecom & Internet] at 5.94 million yen, and [Consulting] at 5.83 million yen. For experienced roles, Finance & Insurance was particularly high at 7.24 million yen.

[Hiring Trends] The ratio of job offerings requiring experience reached 46.7% in March 2026. This increase compared to the previous year indicates a growing demand for specialized talent. Regarding volume, job postings in March 2026 were 205.7% of the 2023 average, while applications reached 130.4%. Significant growth was noted in Finance & Insurance (312.7% in postings) and Real Estate/Construction industries.

[Commentary from Researcher Shota Miyamoto] Average starting salaries have been rising continuously for the past five years. Industries with high pay, like Finance and IT, are seeing a vibrant market with significant increases in both openings and applications. Amidst intensifying competition and rising labor costs, companies are becoming more selective, seeking 'high-quality talent' with specific expertise that contributes to corporate growth. It will be increasingly important for companies to define required skills clearly and set wages based on market rates while targeting the right candidates.