Why the Christmas Recruitment Wind Down Winds Us Up!

The current status quo in the recruitment world is that around late November, both clients and candidates begin to wind down as Christmas approaches.

The common mindset is that Christmas is not the time to move roles or bring on new staff. Combine that with the fatigue of 11 months of hard work (2024 definitely being no exception), and it’s easy to see why people focus on the upcoming time off.

As a result, we often hear clients say, “We’ll reconvene in the new year.”

And every time, we’re left thinking “well, that is just so silly!”

Here’s why…

1. Your competitors are still hiring.

Top candidates don’t wait for January.

If you pause hiring in December, you risk losing out on the best talent to your competitors who kept their processes moving. While you’re waiting to kiss someone at midnight, they’re closing offers and securing top talent.

2. Delays can cost you months.

The hiring process isn’t instant.

On average, it takes around two months to move from interviews to a new hire’s first day—especially when factoring in notice periods. If you’re waiting until January to start, you’re likely looking at a start date in late February or early March. Suddenly, that plan to “hit the ground running” in January is out of the window and that upcoming project desperately needs someone…

The Smarter Approach for Your Business is!

Instead of putting recruitment on ice, keep it moving.

Interview candidates in December, secure the right people, and have notice periods ticking down over Christmas. This way, your new hire can hit the ground running on day one in January.

Now that’s a fresh start.

Of course, it’s not just businesses making this mistake—candidates fall headfirst into the same trap.

We’re often hearing candidates say, “I’ll start looking for a new role in the new year.” And, once again, we’re left thinking “well, that is just so silly!”

Here’s why candidates shouldn’t wait:

1. The early bird gets the role.

Proactive candidates are already interviewing in December. By the time you’re back in January, they’re already at second-stage interviews—potentially with offers on the table. While you’re dusting off your CV, they’re securing the role you’ll wish you’d applied for.

2. January’s job market is more competitive.

With so many people waiting until January to look for roles, the competition spikes. When you’re job hunting alongside a flood of candidates, it’s harder to stand out. Job searching in December means you’re more likely to get interviews with great businesses before the floodgates open.

Plus it’s a well known fact that LinkedIn and Mariah Carey go hand in hand

3. You’re wasting time and missing opportunities.

Just like clients, candidates who wait until January face unnecessary delays. If you only start applying in January, you’re unlikely to start a new role until March. And if you’re less inclined to move in spring or early summer, you might find yourself stuck in your current role for even longer.

Pain.

What You Lovely Contractors Should Know:

Contractors face a unique challenge. Businesses often “clean house” in January, clearing out contractors to cut costs or refresh budgets.

The best way to avoid an unexpected gap in work?

Speak with your recruiter in November or early December to explore potential roles for the new year. This way, you’re ahead of the curve and not scrambling for opportunities in an oversaturated January job market.

And also, your recruiter is probably a great human being.

To Sum It Up:

Whether you’re a candidate or a client, waiting until January to act is a mistake.

You risk missing out on top opportunities, wasting valuable time, and most likely losing money in the process. By being proactive in December, you gain a clear advantage over those who are “waiting for the new year.”

Merry Christmas!