It happens every year: people decide that getting a new job is one of their new year’s resolutions.

Unfortunately, the great idea you had to start the year fresh with a new role, is the same as hundreds of other applicants. In fact, right after the holidays the market is flooded, and decision makers at your preferred companies may still be on annual leave. That’s why we advise job seekers I’m working with to start thinking about their career goals in November and early December, well before the ‘holiday rush’. Here’s why:

Businesses are recruiting and hiring now

You might not start thinking about your role change until the holidays, but your dream company is hiring right up until Christmas time. Many companies want to fill roles by the end of the year.

If you wait to get in touch until after, you’ll find things will go much slower – managers needed to approve new hires are still out on leave, people are still in relaxation mode and slower to make decisions, and there are usually fewer available jobs – they were filled by savvy job seekers back in December!

You can be more selective

If you’re unhappy in your current role and it’s time to leave your job, you want to make sure that the next one is a better fit. When you work with your recruiter before the holidays, not only will you have more time to determine what criteria is important to you and prepare for interviews, you’ll also be in a position of strength, with time to evaluate offers and choose your next perfect role.

It can be a different story a few months later when you’re desperate to move on and willing to accept any role that comes your way.

A head start for the New Year

Job searching in December can set you up for success in January, which can typically be a busy hiring period. Being in the pipeline early means you might be among the first considered when new roles open up. The job hunting process can sometimes be lengthy, the earlier you start your search, the earlier you can begin your new role in the New Year!

Networking Opportunities – Maybe even the Christmas Party!

The holiday season brings more social and professional events, which can provide excellent networking opportunities. People are often in a more relaxed and receptive mood, making it easier to build connections that could lead to job opportunities. If you secure a new role in December, you might get the chance to be introduced to your new team in a social setting before you start in the new year, maybe even attend the Christmas Party – what better way to meet your new colleagues?!

Enjoy your holiday without job stress

There’s no better feeling than being able to relax over the holidays and truly unwind without the stress of looking for a new job hanging over your head.

Changing jobs is one of the biggest decisions we make throughout our lives. Having downtime to mentally adjust from leaving one position and transitioning to another can make a big difference in how you feel on day one. With the difficult part over before the holidays, you’ll be refreshed and ready to hit the ground running come January.