The holiday season is often seen as a time to hit pause on the job hunt, but this could be a missed opportunity. While many assume businesses stop hiring over Christmas, the reality can be quite different. Companies are still recruiting, and this quieter period offers unique advantages for savvy job seekers.
Here’s how to approach job hunting during the holiday season and the new year, with practical advice to set yourself up for success.
The assumption that businesses stop recruiting entirely during the holiday season is a common misconception. While some industries slow down, many others actively hire during December to fill immediate needs or prepare for the year ahead.
Plenty of businesses recruit over the holiday period. In fact, some organisations need roles filled before the end of the year due to budget deadlines, while others start hiring early for positions that kick off in January. Hiring managers often use the quieter holiday weeks to focus on recruitment, meaning your application might receive more attention during this time.
Update your resume and LinkedIn profile now to reflect your most recent achievements. Proactively send out job applications during the holiday period to take advantage of this hiring window and get a head start on candidates waiting until January.
It’s easy to think job hunting will disrupt your downtime, but a little effort can go a long way.
Blocking out a few hours early in your break to focus on your job hunt means you can relax for the rest of the holidays, knowing you’ve made progress.
Set a clear schedule for job hunting and stick to it. For instance, dedicate a couple of mornings to searching for roles, polishing your resume, and sending applications, leaving the rest of your time free for holiday activities. This way, you stay productive without feeling overwhelmed and enjoy the holiday season guilt-free.
If your industry slows down towards the end of the year, you might worry your application will go unnoticed.
Hiring managers often use downtime to review resumes and plan their next hires. With fewer applicants competing for attention, your application is more likely to stand out.
Tailor your cover letter to highlight how your skills align with the company’s goals for the upcoming year. If you don’t hear back before the new year, follow up politely in early January. Many businesses experience delays during this period, so patience is key. A simple email reiterating your interest and asking for an update can keep your application top of mind.
The new year brings a surge in hiring as businesses set fresh goals and budgets. Here’s how to time your job applications for the best results.
January is a prime time for job hunting. Many companies start the year with new budgets and recruitment strategies, making it the best month to apply.
Tip: Have your resume and applications ready in late December. Submitting early in January ensures you’re among the first to be considered.
The hiring momentum often carries into February, especially for mid-level and senior roles. By March, some industries may slow down on hiring as they approach the end of the first quarter.
Tip: Follow up on applications sent in January and continue networking to uncover hidden opportunities.
Get ahead of the competition this holiday season! Explore our latest opportunities or submit your resume to start your job hunt with Robert Walters today.
Set your profile to "Open to Work" and specify the roles you’re seeking.
Engage with posts from companies you’re interested in, such as liking or commenting on their updates.
Post your own content, sharing insights or achievements from your career.
Use holiday downtime to expand your network by connecting with recruiters or professionals in your field.
Navigating today’s job market can be tough, especially with so much misinformation influencing your approach. At Robert Walters, we aim to clear up common misconceptions, so you can make confident decisions and find the right opportunities. Let’s uncover some of the most prevalent job myths and reve
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