Is this a bad time to look for a job? Companies can wait to hire, but would-be employees can't.

It's easier to apply for a job, but not so easy to land one.

MementoJpeg/Getty Images

• It's taking longer to fill job postings than a few years ago.
• Meanwhile, job seekers are settling for roles out of necessity.
• Economist Cory Stahle expects the low-hire, low-fire job market to continue this year.

You may be desperate to quickly get a job, but hiring managers aren't feeling the same pressure.

It's easier to apply to jobs, but employers are taking longer to fill openings.