Why Christmas is the best time to job hunt

Most people would assume that December would be the worst time of year to start thinking about a career change. Companies cease trading for the festive period, fewer people are in the office and budgets tend to be tight. But if a new job is at the top of your Christmas list this year, we’re here to tell you why there’s actually no better time to start looking.

You have more time 
A lot of businesses tend to cease trading around mid-end December which means more free time for you to clean up your CV and start that lengthy application process. You might also have annual leave you need to take before the end of the year, so why not use it to focus on your career development? As well, if your general workload starts to ease you can always spend that extended lunch scanning jobsites for the latest vacancies. Just remember to save your favourites and apply for them out of work when you’re not distracted and can give them your full attention. 
 
Less competition
Most people take the time out over Christmas to enjoy the festivities and spend time with family which naturally means less time is spent focusing on job hunting. It’s always easier to stand out from the crowd and get ahead of the game by January when the rest of the talent pool are still ‘umming and ahhing’ about their current jobs. Stay determined, be pro-active and be sure to keep up conversations throughout December. Recruiters are more likely to have a stronger rapport with a candidate that has kept in contact with them throughout this period than those who have been unresponsive. 
 
Companies are still hiring
Despite what you might think companies are still hiring and most companies will still trade throughout December. In fact, a lot of companies may have remaining budget that they need to spend by the end of the year. If this is the case, they could be looking to hire in December to ensure they are prepared for the New Year. Take advantage of this and remember, December can be a difficult month for recruiters who may be struggling to hit target so they’ll be more than happy to help you find your next role. 
 
More vacancies
It’s quite common that people leave their jobs at this time of year to spend more time with loved ones and to start a fresh in January. This inevitably opens up new opportunities for you. Companies will want to start out the new year with everything in place and with no loose ends which could mean hiring extra people is at the top of their to do lists.
 
Increase in networking opportunities
Whether it’s a Christmas party thrown by family and friends or a business function hosted by work or professional association, this means plenty of opportunities to let others know you’re on the market for a new job or career change. Fellow party-goers may be feeling merry and could be willing to put you in touch with potential connections. If your friend works for a company where you’d like to be employed, then why not see if you can attend their Christmas party with them – it’s a great opportunity to make some solid connections and really sell yourself in a more informal environment. 
 
Temp work
When you think of Christmas temp work don’t automatically just think of retail. Many companies look for temporary staff to assist with end of year clean-ups and hectic tasks that current staff don’t tend to have time for. It may not be exactly what you’re looking for at present but at least it means you’re available immediately when you do find your next perm role. It can also mean you’re in the right place at the right time when the company is looking to take someone on permanently in the New Year so never overlook it as an option. 
 
So what are you waiting for, click here to view our latest vacancies or contact us for help with any aspect of finding and landing your next great job.