Timing Your Job Application: Best Practices Before and After Christmas

When it comes to job searching, timing is everything, especially during the busy holiday season. This article explores the best times to apply for jobs, both before and after Christmas.

The Challenge of Holiday Hiring

From my experience working at a major holiday-driven retailer, it's clear that timing is crucial for job seekers. Our company typically started hiring ‘seasonal workers’ before Halloween to ensure that they would stay for the entire Christmas season, which lasted until the first week of January.

While hiring provided a sense of security for some employees, it also created challenges. Those who were hired seasonally but not offered permanent positions after Christmas sometimes felt disappointed or, in one instance, even contemplated legal action against the company.

Early Application is Key

The best advice I can give is to apply for jobs as soon as the company starts hiring. Early applicants have a better chance of getting noticed and being considered for positions before the competition heats up. They also have more time to learn about the company and its policies, which can help them perform better in their roles.

Fewer Jobs, More Time

Although fewer jobs are advertised before Christmas, the pool of applicants is often smaller as well. This can make it worth your time to apply during this period. Conversely, many jobs are advertised in the new year, but this is also when a significant number of people are actively seeking new positions.

Anticipating Future Needs

Companies operate on a cycle and are often arriving at the end of their current cycle. They anticipate their needs for the next year and put in requisitions accordingly. If your resume is submitted early, you are more likely to be considered before other applicants.

Now is the Best Time

Currently, there are several reasons why now is a great time to apply for jobs. Firstly, year-end budget meetings, which often influence hiring decisions, are happening now. Companies are also engaging in social activities and spending more time discussing their work. This makes it a prime opportunity to network and express interest in potential job openings.

Additionally, many agencies are reaching out to potential job seekers to get a head start on the new year. This is an ideal time to send out letters of introduction and participate in informational interviewing sessions with professionals in your field. It’s a great way to stay ahead of the game and strategically seek job opportunities.

Networking and Informational Interviews

Networking is one of the most effective ways to keep track of your career opportunities. During this holiday season, people are often less busy in the office and more open to discussing their work and potential job openings. Take advantage of this by reaching out to contacts in your industry and participating in these informal discussions.

Conclusion

Whether you are applying for seasonal or permanent positions, timing is crucial in the job market, especially around the holidays. By starting your job search early and leveraging the current holiday season, you can increase your chances of finding the right opportunity. Happy job searching, and remember, now is the best time to make your move!