Why You Should Keep Job Searching Over the Holidays

December often gets a bad rap as a time for job hunting. With holidays approaching and companies winding down for the year, many believe it’s a slow period for hiring. However, statistics and trends prove otherwise. December can actually be a golden opportunity for job seekers, as employers work to fill roles before the year ends or prepare for upcoming projects in the new fiscal year.

Here’s why you should stay active in your job search during the holiday season:

Despite perceptions of a hiring lull, many employers continue recruitment efforts in December to fill current openings or prepare for the new year. For example:

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics data highlights significant December employment increases in industries like government and healthcare. Government employment rose to surpass pre-pandemic levels, adding 709,000 jobs in 2023, with December contributing to this growth. 
• Construction hiring often increases in December, especially in regions with mild winter climates where outdoor work can continue.
• Seasonal growth in education services, including substitute teaching and support staff, occurs as institutions prepare for the next semester. Some positions arise due to staff turnover at the end of the year.
• Institutions like Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo often hire for roles in customer service, operations, and risk management as transaction volumes surge during the holidays.

These trends indicate that December offers significant opportunities across various sectors. Targeting these industries, especially for seasonal or temporary roles, can provide valuable entry points and networking opportunities that may transition into permanent employment.

The assumption that hiring slows leads many job seekers to pause their efforts, reducing competition. This quieter period can give proactive candidates an edge, as hiring managers are more likely to notice fewer, more focused applications.

Holiday events—whether in-person or virtual—are excellent for networking. Employer-hosted parties, community gatherings, and industry mixers offer opportunities to meet decision-makers in a less formal setting. By making connections now, you can stay top-of-mind for January openings​

Some companies need to use up their budgets before the year ends. As a result, hiring managers may accelerate recruitment to fill positions within their financial cycle. Additionally, hiring for roles now helps ensure a team is fully staffed at the start of the year​. For example:

• Amazon historically ramps up hiring during the holiday season to meet increased demand.
• The financial services sector overall saw a 10% increase in vacancies compared to the previous year, driven by a 12% increase in the United States.

Recruiters often face a surge of applications in January due to the new quarter. Applying during the quieter December period ensures your materials are reviewed with greater attention and fewer distractions​. 

December provides a natural opportunity to reconnect with your professional network. Many people are in a festive mood, making it easier to reach out with friendly greetings and updates. This is a great time to send holiday cards or messages to former colleagues, mentors, or industry connections to keep relationships strong.

When you reach out, make sure to share your career goals and ask if they know of any opportunities that align with your experience. Networking is one of the most effective ways to uncover hidden job opportunities.

While December might see fewer job seekers applying, standing out from the crowd is still crucial. Personalizing your resume and cover letter for each application can make a significant impact. Be sure to highlight accomplishments that align with the company’s needs and demonstrate how you can contribute to their success.

Tailoring your application materials also means addressing the hiring manager by name and referencing specific details about the role. Personalized, thoughtful applications are much more likely to catch the eye of recruiters, even in the holiday season when time may be limited.

Even during the holiday season, hiring managers and recruiters remain active on platforms like LinkedIn. Keeping your online presence up to date is key to getting noticed. Update your LinkedIn profile with your most recent achievements, skills, and any certifications you’ve obtained.

Don’t hesitate to engage on the platform by sharing relevant content, commenting on posts, or engaging in discussions. This activity can increase your visibility and help keep you top of mind with potential employers. Additionally, activate the “Open to Work” feature to let recruiters know you’re available for new opportunities.

While December can be a busy hiring month, many companies also use this time to plan for the new year. Some employers delay interviews and hiring until January, when budgets and staffing plans are finalized.

Use this time to research companies and set up job alerts for roles that will be posted in January. Make sure your resume is ready, and have your applications queued up for when the new year begins. Being prepared ahead of time can help you jump on opportunities as soon as they become available.

During the holiday season, many hiring managers and recruiters are out of the office, and response times can be slower than usual. Don’t let this discourage you. While it may feel like your applications are falling into a black hole, follow up politely after a week or two to reaffirm your interest in the role and to check on the hiring timeline.

By maintaining patience and professionalism, you’ll ensure that you stay top of mind when hiring managers return and are ready to move forward with the process.

December provides the perfect opportunity to invest in your personal and professional development. With the end-of-year slowdowns, you can focus on enhancing your skills by taking online courses or earning certifications in your field.

For example, brushing up on in-demand skills like data analysis, project management, or specific software tools can make you more marketable and give you an edge over other candidates. These new skills can be highlighted on your resume and LinkedIn profile, making your application stand out.

If full-time opportunities aren’t immediately available, consider freelancing during the holiday season. Freelancing can help you stay connected to your industry, build your resume, and expand your network. It can also be a great way to keep your skills sharp and gain experience while you continue searching for permanent work.

These types of roles can fill gaps in your resume and demonstrate initiative to potential employers.

Job searching during the holidays can feel more challenging, but maintaining consistency is key. Set aside time each day to apply for jobs, reach out to contacts, or follow up on previous applications. Having a daily routine will keep you motivated and productive, even if progress feels slow.

Remember that the job search is a marathon, not a sprint. Keeping a steady pace ensures that you’re ready when the right opportunity comes along.

While the holiday season is often perceived as a slow time for job hunting, December can actually be an excellent month to stay active in your job search. With many industries still hiring, fewer applicants to compete with, and a variety of networking opportunities available, you could find valuable job leads that set you up for success in the new year. 

Here are the key takeaways:

• Many industries, including healthcare, government, and finance, continue to hire in December due to budget cycles, seasonal demand, and new-year project planning.
• Fewer job seekers apply during the holidays, giving proactive candidates an edge.
• Holiday events and informal gatherings are ideal for reconnecting with industry contacts and expanding your professional network.
• Companies may fast-track hiring to use up their budgets before the year ends, offering opportunities for candidates to fill key roles quickly.
• Recruiters often face a surge in applications in January, so applying in December ensures your materials are noticed amidst fewer distractions.
• Tailoring your resume and cover letter to each role increases your chances of standing out, even during the busy holiday season.
• Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and engage with relevant content to stay on recruiters’ radar.
• Use the quieter holiday season to enhance your skills and increase your marketability.
• Consider freelance or contract work to stay connected to your industry and continue gaining experience.
• Maintaining a steady job search routine throughout December will help keep you motivated and ready for opportunities when they arise.

Cynthia Orduña

Cynthia Orduña is a Career and Business Coach with a background in recruiting, human resources, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has helped 50+ companies around the world hire and retain talent in cities like LA, SF, NY, Berlin, Tokyo, Sydney, and London. She has also coached over 300 people, from entry to senior levels, in developing their one-of-a-kind career paths, Her work has been featured in publications such as Business Insider, The Balance Careers, The Zoe Report, and more. To learn more you can connect with Cynthia on LinkedIn.