Job Search During the Holidays

Many clients expressed concerns about hiring slowing down during the holidays. Here’s some perspective to challenge these myths:

Myth: Hiring slows down between now and the end of the year. 

Reality: Many companies are planning for the new year and want roles filled and ready to onboard in January.

Reality: Open positions left unfilled by year-end may be hard to get approved again.

Reality: Recruiters often have Q4 quotas to meet, making this a busy hiring period.

Myth: People are too busy during the holidays to network.

Reality: With reduced business travel, schedules can be more flexible for interviews and networking.

Reality: Holiday gatherings and family events are great opportunities to network.

Myth: Friends and families do not make good networking contacts.

Reality: Some of the best job leads come from unexpected connections through personal networks.

My encouragement to you during this time is to keep up your momentum! The holiday season is a great time to advance your job search. Here are some practical activities you can focus on:

• Follow up with hiring managers/recruiters with whom you have recently interviewed.

• Send personalized thank-you/holiday messages to reconnect with your network.

• Attend holiday events with friends, former colleagues, professional associations, etc.

• Participate in virtual events or volunteer opportunities to meet new people.

• Practice your STAR stories and common interview questions.

• Keep up with continuing education opportunities to keep your skills sharp.

As always, feel free to reach out for support. I’m here to help you navigate your job search through the holidays and into the new year. You got this!