Applying for Jobs During the Holidays: A Smart Strategy for Career Seekers

The holiday season brings visions of cozy nights by the fire, festive celebrations, and reconnecting with loved ones. But let’s be real—if you’re like me and have that millennial hustle mentality, you know the grind never truly stops. For job seekers, this isn’t just a time for peppermint lattes and ugly sweaters; it’s prime time to jumpstart or reignite your career search. Wake up and smell the eggnog—when your livelihood’s on the line, quitting isn’t an option!

Contrary to what many people believe, the holiday season isn’t some barren wasteland where hiring managers vanish into vacation mode until January. In reality, it’s an untapped market brimming with opportunities for those bold and proactive enough to seize them. While everyone else is hitting pause, this is your chance to stand out, build connections, and set yourself up for a career win in the new year.

Here’s why holiday job hunting is a power move—and exactly how to make it work for you.

Why the Holidays Are a Smart Time to Job Hunt

Less Competition, More Visibility

Here’s the truth: most job seekers hit the brakes during the holidays, assuming it’s a waste of time to apply. That’s great news for you. With fewer people vying for attention, your application has a better chance of standing out. Hiring managers still have positions to fill, and being one of the few candidates in the mix can make a big impression.

Companies Are Wrapping Up Year-End Hiring

Businesses often need to finalize hiring decisions before the end of the year to use their budgets effectively. Others are looking to recruit now for roles starting in January. By getting your resume in front of them during this critical period, you can beat the January rush and secure a position before the new year even begins.

Networking Happens Naturally During the Holidays

Let’s face it: the holidays are all about connection. Whether it’s at a company holiday party, an industry event, or even a family gathering, this is the perfect time to mention that you’re exploring new opportunities. The festive atmosphere makes conversations flow more easily, and people are often in a giving mindset, which can lead to valuable introductions or advice.

Seasonal Jobs Can Be Gateway Opportunities

Industries like retail, e-commerce, logistics, and hospitality ramp up hiring during the holidays, creating temporary or seasonal roles. But don’t dismiss these opportunities—they can often lead to permanent positions or help you build relationships within a company. Plus, they show potential employers that you’re willing to work hard and adapt, even in a temporary capacity.

Hustling During the Holidays Stands Out

Applying for jobs when most people are taking a break signals initiative, determination, and a strong work ethic. Employers notice candidates who are motivated enough to put in the effort during a time when others are coasting. A well-timed follow-up or thoughtful holiday-themed message can leave a lasting impression.

How to Make Your Holiday Job Hunt a Success

1. Refresh Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Before diving into applications, give your resume and LinkedIn profile a holiday glow-up. Highlight recent achievements and tailor your experience to match the roles you’re targeting. Update your LinkedIn headline to reflect your goals—something like “Creative Marketing Strategist | Open to New Opportunities” or “Customer Service Expert | Ready to Help Businesses Thrive.”

2. Network with Purpose (and Festive Cheer)

Holiday networking doesn’t have to be awkward or overly formal. It’s as simple as reconnecting with people in your circle:

• Send a thoughtful holiday message to former colleagues or mentors.

  “Happy Holidays, [Name]! I hope this season finds you well. I’m currently exploring new opportunities in [industry/role] and would love to hear any advice or insights you might have.”

• Attend events with an open mind. Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual meet-up, mention your career goals naturally in conversation.

  
  

3. Target Companies Actively Hiring

Many companies post year-end openings to fill immediate needs or start new projects in January. Keep an eye on job boards, company websites, and LinkedIn for roles with phrases like “immediate start” or “January onboarding.” Applying early puts you ahead of candidates who wait until the new year.

4. Consider Seasonal Roles as Strategic Moves

Seasonal positions in industries like retail or logistics can be more than just temporary gigs. Use these opportunities to showcase your skills, build connections, and potentially transition into a permanent role. Plus, they help fill gaps in your resume while providing steady income during your search.

5. Follow Up Like a Pro

Holiday schedules can slow down response times, but that doesn’t mean you should fade into the background. Send polite follow-ups after interviews or applications to keep yourself top of mind. A quick message like this works wonders:

• “Thank you for considering my application for [position]. I understand this is a busy time of year, but I wanted to express my continued enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to contribute to your team.”

  
  

Final Thoughts

The holiday season isn’t just a time for reflection and celebration—it’s a chance to take control of your career. While others are slowing down, you can hustle, make meaningful connections, and position yourself for success in the new year.

So go ahead, enjoy the eggnog and the holiday cheer, but don’t lose sight of your goals. The time and effort you invest now could lead to the opportunity of a lifetime. Why wait for January to start fresh when you can take action today? Your dream job is out there, waiting for someone bold enough to go after it. Let that someone be you.

Make the most of the holiday season by laying the groundwork for a successful new year—your dream job is closer than you think! Email Carlos at carlos@resumefin.com to get started today.

Works Cited

1. LinkedIn. (2023). Holiday Networking Tips to Advance Your Career. Retrieved from linkedin.com.

2. Glassdoor. (2023). The Benefits of Job Searching During the Holidays. Retrieved from glassdoor.com.

3. Forbes. (2023). Why December is the Best Time to Job Hunt. Retrieved from forbes.com.

4. Indeed. (2023). How to Land a Job During the Holiday Season. Retrieved from indeed.com.

5. Monster. (2023). Holiday Job Hunting Tips for Every Job Seeker. Retrieved from monster.com.