The festive season is almost upon us, and whilst you might think that it is a good time to put your career change on hold, the final 8 weeks of the year can be a great time to secure a new job before the new year starts.
In fact, acting now could give you a real advantage in landing a role, putting you ahead of the January rush. Here’s why it’s worth taking action now—and some statistics to back it up.
1. Companies Are Rushing to Fill Vacancies
The end of the year means many businesses are working to fill vacancies before their annual budgets close. A survey by the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) found that 46% of UK employers planned to hire permanent staff in the last quarter of the year. Many companies know they need to have full teams in place before the New Year, especially in industries like finance and tech, where project deadlines loom.
Moreover, LinkedIn data from 2022 shows that November and December are surprisingly busy months for recruitment, with job postings remaining high—around 10% above the annual average—during this period. Many businesses aim to finalise hires before the Christmas break, meaning now is an ideal time to apply.
2. Less Competition
January is traditionally seen as a time when job seekers flood the market, but that makes December a prime time to get ahead. According to a 2023 survey by Glassdoor, job applications increase by 20-30% in January compared to the previous months. This surge means you’re more likely to get lost in the crowd after the holidays. On the other hand, applying in October and November gives you a better chance of standing out, as fewer applicants are actively searching during this time. Less competition can often lead to quicker interviews and better negotiating power.
3. End-of-Year Bonuses and Benefits
While some employees may worry about missing out on their year-end bonuses, it’s worth noting that many new roles offer attractive sign-on bonuses to compensate. In fact, research from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) indicates that 17% of UK employers are increasingly offering sign-on bonuses to attract talent, especially in competitive sectors like IT and healthcare. Additionally, more than half of UK employers (55%) report struggling to fill vacancies, leading them to sweeten the deal with flexible working arrangements and immediate benefits. This means you could secure an attractive package to make up for missing out on your current end-of-year perks.
4. Getting Ahead of New Year Hiring Waves
January may feel like the natural time to begin a job search, but it’s also when the market becomes most competitive. According to Totaljobs, 67% of UK employees consider changing jobs in the New Year. This influx of candidates means a lot more competition for roles. Starting your job search now puts you ahead of the curve, with less competition, so you’re more likely to secure an offer before the January rush. Plus, you’ll already be settled into your new role while others are just starting the application process.
5. Build Momentum Before the Festive Break
Beginning a new job now gives you the chance to settle in before the quieter Christmas period. You’ll have time to familiarise yourself with your new responsibilities and make a strong first impression before the New Year kicks off in full force. Studies show that 60% of employees feel that it takes around three months to fully settle into a new role. By starting in November or December, you can use the quieter weeks to build momentum and be fully up to speed when business picks up again in January.
6. Networking Opportunities at Year-End Events
Starting a new role just before Christmas gives you the opportunity to attend company Christmas parties or other year-end events. These social gatherings are invaluable for networking, allowing you to meet your new colleagues in a more relaxed environment. A 2022 study by Cigna Global found that 82% of UK employees said that forming strong work relationships was crucial for job satisfaction. Starting now means you’ll have the chance to integrate more quickly into your team, build those relationships early, and start 2025 with a solid network.
7. Financial Security for the New Year
With the cost of living continuing to rise across the UK, financial security is a top priority for many. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported in 2023 that inflation remained high at 6.7%, with energy and food prices putting pressure on household budgets. Securing a new job before the end of the year could provide a pay rise or additional benefits, helping you start 2025 in a more secure financial position. The ONS also found that average earnings in the UK rose by 8.5% in the year to July 2023, suggesting that now is a good time to seek out higher-paying opportunities.
8. Capitalise on Hiring Trends in Specific Sectors
Certain sectors, such as retail, logistics, and healthcare, see a surge in demand during the festive period. According to a 2022 report by the British Retail Consortium, over 30,000 temporary jobs were advertised in the retail sector alone leading up to Christmas. While these may initially be short-term roles, many employers use the festive period to assess candidates for permanent positions. The NHS also ramps up hiring towards the end of the year, particularly for healthcare professionals preparing for the winter season, with nearly 100,000 vacancies reported across the service.
9. A Fresh Start for 2025
Finally, securing a new role now means you can go into the New Year with a fresh start. Research from the Mental Health Foundation found that over 70% of people experience stress or anxiety in January, often due to financial worries or uncertainty about the year ahead. By securing a new position now, you can reduce this stress and start 2025 with confidence. A new job can also provide a sense of renewal, helping you set and achieve new career goals from the outset.
Conclusion
While many people associate the festive season with winding down, it’s actually a fantastic time to kick your job search into gear. With companies eager to fill vacancies, fewer applicants to compete with, and the chance to start 2025 with a fresh role, the next eight weeks are a golden opportunity for a career change. Don’t wait until January—get ahead of the competition now and land your dream job before the year is out.
