The holiday season is often perceived as a lull in the job market. There’s a common belief that companies slow down their hiring processes in December, leaving job seekers with minimal opportunities until the new year. However, having worked closely with hundreds of individuals and thousands in group settings over the years, I’ve witnessed a remarkably different trend. Many of my clients have successfully secured positions during this period—even amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic when hiring seemed at a standstill.
This article isn’t about waiting for January to reignite your job search; it’s about capitalizing on the unique prospects the holiday season offers to get ahead of the competition. Here’s why this time of year can be one of the most advantageous for securing your next role—and how you can optimize your efforts.
While it’s true that some companies may pause hiring until after the holidays, many others are eager to fill roles before year-end. Budget considerations often dictate hiring timelines, and organizations want to onboard new talent before their fiscal year resets. Moreover, with the prevailing mindset that “no one is hiring right now,” fewer candidates are applying—resulting in less competition for those who do.
This presents a golden opportunity for proactive job seekers ready to break away from the norm. While others are in holiday mode, you can intensify your job search and position yourself to shine.
Let’s be honest: Most people ease off the accelerator in December. They’re preoccupied with holiday planning, travel, or simply believing their efforts will be fruitless during this time. This mindset creates a lull in job applications, meaning recruiters will likely encounter fewer candidates in their pipelines.
By ramping up your applications and networking efforts now, you can seize this quieter period. Hiring managers and recruiters continue to review applications in December, and they’ll take note of those who apply while others are taking a break.
While submitting job applications is crucial, relying solely on them won’t suffice. The hard truth is that up to 80% of jobs are secured through networking. If your job search strategy hinges exclusively on submitting applications, you’re overlooking significant opportunities.
This is where networking becomes essential. Concentrate on forging connections within your target companies. A referral or personal introduction from someone already employed there carries far more weight than your résumé alone.
Here’s how to get started:
Leverage LinkedIn. Connect with individuals in roles similar to the one you desire, or reach out directly to hiring managers and recruiters. Personalize your message to reflect genuine interest in their company or team.
Reconnect with your network. Use the holiday season as an opportunity to reach out to former colleagues or mentors. A simple holiday greeting can pave the way for meaningful conversations about job openings.
Participate in virtual and in-person events. Many professional organizations host holiday networking events—ideal opportunities to meet people in your industry and cultivate relationships.
Remember: The quality of your connections will always outweigh the quantity of applications you submit.
While everyone else is sleeping in, indulging in festive treats, and telling themselves they’ll resume job hunting in January, you have an opportunity to rise above the rest. The holiday season is your moment to outwork and outsmart your competition.
Dive into the job market with vigor. Apply for roles that excite you, but don’t stop there—identify points of contact within each company and start building relationships. Whether through LinkedIn, email, or holiday networking events, channel your energy into connecting with individuals who can help you get your foot in the door.
This is a time of year when opportunities are ripe for those who dare to seize them. You don’t need to wait until January to make your next career move. By taking action now, you can enter the new year with a new job while others are just beginning their resolutions.
The holiday season may seem like an unconventional time to pursue a job search, but it’s one of the most strategic moments of the year. By consistently applying, prioritizing networking, and maintaining motivation, you’ll position yourself for success in the competitive job market.
While the world celebrates the holidays, you have a different kind of celebration to prepare for: the moment you land that dream job.