The holiday season often feels like a natural pause point. Many people assume hiring slows down and put their job search on hold until January. While it is tempting to wait, continuing your search over the holidays can actually give you a valuable advantage. From reduced competition to early access to new opportunities, here are five reasons why staying active could set you up for success in the new year.
1. Hiring processes are getting longer
The average time to hire has steadily increased, with many roles taking several weeks or even months to fill. Starting your applications during the holiday period allows you to get ahead of the process. You can complete early interview stages and paperwork while others wait, putting you in a strong position once normal business activity resumes.
2. It is a great time to make connections
The holiday season can be surprisingly effective for networking. Recruiters, hiring managers, and mentors may have more flexibility for informal conversations or catch-ups. A thoughtful end-of-year message or holiday card can help restart conversations and keep you top of mind as hiring plans for the new year begin to take shape.
3. There is less competition
Many job seekers believe the holidays are a bad time to apply, which means fewer applications are being submitted. This reduced competition gives your CV a better chance of being noticed and reviewed. Applying when others are inactive can significantly improve your visibility and increase the likelihood of securing interviews.
4. Companies are still hiring
Not all businesses slow down over the holidays. Some industries, such as retail, logistics, healthcare, and customer support, experience increased demand and continue hiring. Others recruit to meet year-end targets or prepare for projects starting in the new year. Staying active ensures you do not miss these opportunities.
5. There may be additional perks
Holiday hires can sometimes benefit from seasonal incentives, bonuses, or flexible arrangements. It is also a great time to join a team socially, as end-of-year events and onboarding activities help new starters build connections quickly. Applying now can also put you ahead of recruitment drives tied to new budgets released in January.
Final thought
Pausing your job search over the holidays can feel comfortable, but staying active may give you a meaningful edge. With less competition, ongoing hiring, and opportunities to build relationships, this period can be a strategic time to move closer to your career goals. A little effort now can make a big difference in the year ahead.
Helpful Resources
These resources can support your holiday job search and help you stay motivated and organised:
- Indeed Career Guide: Job Searching During the Holidays
- LinkedIn: Holiday Networking Tips
- Glassdoor: When Companies Hire the Most
- The Muse: End of Year Job Search Advice
- Harvard Business Review: Smarter Networking Strategies
