It is the most exciting and much-awaited season of the year. It is the time for joy, rest, and bond with your family. But for some professionals and employees, you might want to ask, “Is this a good time to look for a new job?”

Many of us might think that December is not a great time to change jobs. One of the main reasons is that we are all waiting for 13th-month bonus, Christmas bonuses, and other employee benefits. It can also be a bad time since everyone is busy preparing for events and parties, and these can slow down management decisions. 

So if you are looking for a job during this time of the year, you might find yourself waiting for the next year when the recruitment team comes back from vacation. 

But if you really want to change job during the busiest and merriest time of the year, here’s what you need to know. 

Is it worth it to job hunt during the holiday season?

You might think NO. 

But surprisingly, job hunting during the holiday season can still be worth it. While some companies slow down recruitment due to vacations and year-end planning, there are other companies who are actively preparing for January by reviewing applications early or filling in urgent roles before the new year begins. 

There is also less competition during this time as many candidates pause their search in December. This can give you a better chance to stand out. And since December means corporate parties and events, it is the best time to create networking opportunities. The holiday season can be a strategic time to position yourself with new opportunities even if the real hiring surge happens around January and February. 

So is it still worth it to job hunt during this season? 

It is always worth it to job hunt any time of the year. The key here is that you create your own opportunities and keep chasing great careers even if it is the busiest or the quietest time of the year. 

The pros and cons of holiday job searches

You might still think that job hunting during the holiday season is a bit off and unnecessary. So here are some advantages and disadvantages of job searching during this season. 

Pros of job searching during the holiday season

Less competition

Everyone is busy partying, resting, or on vacation. A lot of people are putting off their plans of finding a new job during this season and just focusing on themselves and their families. This means, if you job hunt during this season, there will be less competition. This means you will have more opportunities and chances for your resume to stand out more. 

Hiring managers are still active

Some hiring managers may be on vacation. But there are also recruiters and HR teams who often continue to review applications during this season. They still keep on looking for candidates especially for strategic or urgent roles. And they are also looking for someone to start early next year. 

New budget means new roles

Most companies are doing their budget planning later this month. This means companies have fresh budgets to work on for the coming year. That is why they are doing early recruitment during the holiday season. And early applications or applications during this season get prioritised. 

Great networking opportunities

The holiday season means more social events, end-of-year gatherings, and relaxed calendars. You can meet up with your college friends or attend family reunions, or catch up with your old colleagues, and these events can bring job opportunities for the next year. 

It is the best time to demonstrate drive

Employers notice initiative. This means that if you show you are proactive even during a “quiet or holiday” period, it can reflect well on your persistence and great hardworking character.

Cons of job hunting during the holidays

Slower response times

Since most hiring managers and recruiters are already on vacation, it can be a bit slow getting interviews. There can also be delays in onboarding. 

Fewer job postings

Since most companies are hiring after the new year, there can be limited number of job opportunities. But that does not mean there are no job opportunities to look for during this time. So just keep on checking and great opportunities might come up. 

Distractions 

Since there are a lot of corporate parties and events, holiday planning, travel, and other celebrations, it can be hard to focus on hiring new employees during this time of year. 

Now that we know the pros and cons of looking for a job during this season, what is exactly the best time to find a job? Here’s what you need to know. 

When Is the Best Time to Change Jobs or Find New Opportunities?

Whilst we already established that holiday job hunting is not a bad idea, here are some prime times of the year to actively pursue new opportunities. 

January to February 

January to February is the best time to find a new job. This is because most companies start working with a renewed hiring budget. This is also the time when teams return from leave and plan for upcoming projects. Recruitment cycles also resume full gear during this time. And if you plan to job hunt during this time, make sure to apply mid-January as the hiring activity usually spikes after the new year. 

March to May

This is actually the month where strong follow-up happens. There is a continued hiring momentum during this period. There are also fewer holidays so there is no interruption in workflow. Managers are also eager to fill roles before the mid-year. 

September to October

This is the late year push in recruitment. Businesses often aim to close the year strong so teams may fast-track recruitment to meet annual goals. Jobs posted in September tend to result in offers by October-November. 

After this period, the coming months are when the hiring slows down. But it won’t stop. Just a bit of a slow down. This doesn’t mean you can’t find jobs during slow periods. It just means that the pace will be a bit gentle. 

Strategies for Job Hunting During Any Season

Whether it’s the holidays or peak hiring season, you still need to be ready and on the look out for the best career opportunities. Here are some tips that can help you do that. 

1. Keep Your Resume Updated

Make sure to always update your resume. Whether it is a new project completed, a new skill unlocked, or a new tool certification, it is best to update your resume every now and then so you are ready when an opportunity arises. 

2. Strengthen Your LinkedIn Presence

Just like your resume, make sure to also strengthen your LinkedIn Presence. Recruiters are always on the look out on LinkedIn for potential candidates. So if your LinkedIn is updated, the platform’s algorithm can easily recommend you to a recruiter or hiring manager. So make sure to always polish your profile. 

3. Network Everywhere You Go

Networking is very important. So wherever you go or whatever you do, make sure to expand your connections. Whether it is a holiday party, industry event, or community groups, connections matter. So keep connecting and meeting people. New connections mean new opportunities. 

4. Follow Up Promptly

If you are applying for a job, don’t forget to follow up. Most recruiters and hiring managers are busy so they might get lost in hundreds of job applications. It would help them if you will follow up with your application. It shows professionalism and it will give you proper expectations about the job. 

5. Prepare During Slow Hiring Periods

As mentioned, there are great periods where recruitment spikes, so while waiting for these seasons, you can use your time in upskilling with online courses, researching target companies, and refining your interview skills. Doing this can increase your chances of getting more job opportunities.

For some, the holiday season is a time to party, rest, or travel. But for some, it can be a great opportunity to find a new career and job that can change your lives in the coming year. Just be proactive, network intentionally, and always be prepared. 

If you are looking for new careers right now, make sure to browse our job opportunities on our website or LinkedIn page and send your resume to jobs@mdmsystems.net. 

Happy holidays, and may the best opportunities come your way.