For most jobseekers, December is traditionally written off on the assumption that employers delay filling new vacancies until the New Year hangover has worn off.

That’s a myth.

At SkyWater, December is frequently one of our best months for placing candidates and our hiring activity continues throughout the holiday season. Don’t put the brakes on your job search. For candidates, the holiday season is the perfect time to secure that elusive job offer and end the year on a professional high. Here’s why:

Businesses are planning ahead

New Year resolutions mean that recruiters are inundated with applicants in the first few weeks of January. Why wait until January for your resume to get lost in the crowd? Successful brands take advantage of this time of year to schedule interviews. To them, hiring talent is a priority all year round. Don’t miss out.

Last chance to fill existing vacancies

Hiring managers run the risk of losing open jobs if they aren’t filled within the financial year which makes hiring a priority for many companies with vacancies that have been open for several weeks. Attract the attention of hiring managers and show you’re serious about your job search. Make yourself available for an interview on the day of Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve if the employer requests it. Jobs with a targeted start date of January 1st means interviews must take place throughout December for recruiters and hiring managers to meet their targets.

Most applicants wait until January

The majority of job seekers relax or suspend their job search as soon as December arrives on the basis that ‘nothing happens’ during the holidays. With fewer job seekers in the market, and fewer resumes being sent to hiring managers and recruiters, it’s your chance to stand out from the crowd.

Great jobs are still available

There’s a myth surrounding the holidays that job vacancies posted during December aren’t quality positions. Poor-quality jobs are advertised all year round. Employers take hiring seriously regardless of the holiday season. If they have a vacancy that post will be advertised or placed with recruiters who will act fast to fill the position before their competitors get the chance. Make sure your resume makes the final shortlist. Stay active in your job search.

Celebrate the New Year in style

Knowing you have a job offer in hand is a great way to end the year. While most job seekers will begin their search in early January, you’ll be preparing for onboarding with your new employer. All that time, effort, and persistence will be worth it as you look forward to a new challenge and career success in 2024.

If the hiring pace slows …

In some sectors, hiring may slow if the decision-making process is delayed due to members of the hiring team using up their annual leave entitlement at this time. If this applies to you, it’s still vital to keep your connections and your job search live. Connect with key people in the company on your professional networks and stay visible through the holiday season with regular updates and posts. When January arrives you’ll be poised for career success.