Should you stop searching for work in December and early January? Many people believe there is little point in applying for jobs during this period. However, experts say this is not the case. In fact, hitting pause on your job search over the Christmas and New Year break can mean missing out on opportunities that continue to arise behind the scenes.
Although hiring activity may slow temporarily, recruitment rarely stops altogether. Many organisations are still reviewing applications, finalising budgets and planning for the year ahead. This means roles can be advertised, shortlists prepared and decisions made well before most jobseekers return to the market in late January.
While it’s important to take time to rest and recharge over the holiday period, maintaining some momentum in your job search can put you at a clear advantage. So, what are the benefits of continuing your job search during the holidays?
Why you should continue your job search during the holidays
Job opportunities don’t stop over the holidays
It is a common misconception that very few jobs are advertised during the holidays. However, many organisations may have a hiring budget remaining at the end of the year. You should also remember that companies have limited control over when their employees choose to resign. As a result, some employees leave their roles in December, and organisations may want to fill these positions immediately.
Less competition from other jobseekers
Many jobseekers hit pause on their job searches in December and early January, as they believe recruitment activity is paused during this period. This means that if you are applying for roles during this time, you may face less competition.
If you wait until later in January, there is often a spike in job applications as many people seek a fresh start in the new year. The holiday period can also be a good time to reach out to contacts in your professional network. This is because they may may have more availability for informal conversations. This can help put you ahead of jobseekers who begin their search later in January.
Job offers can come faster
If companies are looking for employees to start in the new year, applying during the holidays may mean you receive a job offer sooner.
Organisations with unfilled positions are often keen to have these roles filled as quickly as possible once the new year begins.
More time to focus on your job search
If you are already employed and considering a new role, the holiday period can provide an ideal opportunity to intensify your job search. Searching for a new role while maintaining full-time employment can be exhausting. However, many people take leave over the Christmas period. This can give you more time to reach out to contacts, prepare job applications and search for advertised vacancies.
With many jobseekers easing off over the holidays, this period can also be an ideal time to focus on preparation as well as applications. The holiday break provides the perfect opportunity to update your resume and refine your cover letter. This allows you to maintain momentum in your job search.
Are you looking for a new career? Melbourne Resume Writers can help. We offer a range of professional services, including tailored esume writing and professional selection criteria writing.
Article References
Indeed (17 December 2025) ‘7 Tips for an Effective Job Search During the Holidays’, Indeed, accessed 29 December 2025.
Seek (14 October 2025) ‘4 reasons to keep job hunting during the holidays’, Seek, accessed 29 December 2025.