It can be tempting to take your ‘foot off the gas’ as December progresses, assuming it’s a slow hiring season. After all, the holidays are here, offices are generally quieter, and the urge to put your job search on hold can be substantial. That being said, like everything in life, it’s all about perspective – so what if we told you that December could actually be a golden opportunity to secure your next role? Or at least plant seeds that will set you up far better for success in a brand-new year.
Contrary to popular belief, hiring doesn’t freeze in December. In fact, many employers are eager to fill positions and prepare for new projects in the upcoming year. By staying active in your job hunt while others take a break, you’ll stand out and can increase your chances of success. Here’s why December can be the perfect time to double down on your job search.
Fewer Applicants, Less Competition
Let’s face it: job hunting can feel like a crowded race, posing those internal questions in your head like “How can I possibly stand out”? However, in December, many people step off the track, distracted by holiday events or assuming what you may have previously – that hiring managers are already in vacation mode.
This slowdown creates a unique advantage for the determined job seeker. With fewer applications flooding hiring managers’ inboxes, your resume is more likely to get noticed. In a traditionally ‘quieter’ pool of candidates, this can be your chance to shine when others hold off until the New Year. This leads nicely to our next point…
Get Ahead of the January Surge
Come January, the job market often roars back to life, and as a result, so does the competition. New job openings flood the market, but so do a wave of applicants with fresh New Year’s resolutions to find their dream job.
By job hunting and applying in December, you’re not just competing with fewer candidates; you’re also setting yourself up for potential interviews and job offers before others even start updating their resumes. On top of that, employers value candidates who go the extra mile, and continuing your job search in December sends a strong message. It shows that you’re proactive, motivated, and ready to seize opportunities, even during a traditionally slower season.
End-of-Year Budget
An insider tip is that many companies have “use it or lose it” budgets for hiring, and if roles remain unfilled by the end of the year, they risk losing those funds altogether. To avoid this, hiring managers are often eager to finalize decisions before December 31st.
Timing is everything and by keeping your job search active in December, you could position yourself as the ideal candidate when companies are looking to fill gaps quickly.
More Time with Decision Makers
While December can be busy for some, it’s also a time when offices slow down, and decision-makers might have more availability to review resumes and conduct interviews. Without the usual flood of meetings and projects, hiring managers can dedicate more focus to their recruitment efforts. They may be more likely to grab a casual cup of coffee to get to know you better or to hop on a virtual call to benefit from an experience-share. If you do get an interview, read a couple of our previous blogs that can help set you up for success: Preparing for your Next Job Interview, 6 Ways to Prepare for Behavioural Interviews, Your Post-Interview Guide to Success.
This quieter pace works to your advantage, giving your application the attention it deserves and potentially speeding up the hiring process.
Holiday Networking Opportunities
That brings us to networking, and the holiday season is ripe with opportunities to engage with your existing or prospective connections. Whether it’s attending a festive event, sending a thoughtful LinkedIn message, or reconnecting with former colleagues, December is an ideal time to leverage relationships for job leads.
For instance, a simple holiday greeting can open doors to conversations about potential opportunities, and it’s also a great way to remind your network that you’re in the market for your next role.
Set the Stage for a Strong New Year
Imagine kicking off January with a new job already lined up. By staying active in December, you can make that vision a reality. Even if you don’t land a position immediately, the groundwork you lay now will set you up for success when hiring accelerates in the new year.
Updating your resume, refining your LinkedIn profile, and sending out applications during December ensures you’re ready to hit the ground running and start the year with a sense of momentum and purpose.
In summary, December isn’t just a time for celebration; it’s also a time for opportunity. Remember, hiring doesn’t stop just because the calendar says it’s the holidays and companies are still looking for top talent. You could be exactly the candidate they need!
If you’re ready to take the next step, now is the time to act, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start, consider working with a recruitment agency. At LRO Staffing, our teams specialize in connecting job seekers like you with meaningful opportunities, even during the holiday season. Contact us today or visit our open jobs page.
This December, make the smart move – keep applying, keep networking, and keep believing in your ability to land the role you deserve.
