Every year around this time, many job seekers hit pause. They pack away their résumés while taking out the holiday decorations, convinced that no one hires during November and December. As a job search and career coach, I can tell you: this simply isn’t true. Yes, the pace feels different, and yes, people are more distracted, but hiring does not stop. Companies still need to close out headcount, fill roles before budgets reset, or bring on new staff for Q1 initiatives. I’ve seen plenty of people receive interviews, offers, and even start new jobs between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
So, if you want to slow down your search to enjoy the season, do it. Rest matters, and you deserve time with your family, your friends, and all the joy this time of year brings. But here’s where many job seekers make the wrong move: they stop everything. They go quiet. And that silence can cost them important opportunities. You can step back from applications without stepping back from visibility.
The holidays create a unique opening for connection. You’re naturally seeing people you haven’t caught up with in months: former colleagues, neighbors home from college, extended family, friends dropping by for parties and dinners. These moments are more than festive, they’re strategic. In between the eating, laughing, and reminiscing, take a moment to share what you’re looking for. Tell people what roles interest you, where you want to work next, or what kind of transition you’re hoping to make. These conversations don’t need to be formal. In fact, the casual nature of the season makes them easier.
Because here’s the truth I remind my clients of all year long: In real estate, it’s location, location, location. In the job search, it’s network, network, network. Research at Challenger, Gray and Christmas, where I work, shows us that about 80 percent of jobs that are filled are never posted online. They’re filled through recommendations, internal referrals, and good old-fashioned word of mouth. The more people who know what you want, the more eyes and ears you have working on your behalf.
So don’t let the holidays be a networking blackout period. Lay the groundwork now, while everyone is a little more relaxed and open to conversations. Show up warmly, authentically, and with clarity about your goals. This season isn’t just about closing out the year, it’s about planting seeds for the one that’s coming. And with the right connections, those seeds can turn into real opportunities.
Need help with your job search, moving to the next step, or telling your story? I’m here to help you take the next step Book a session with me, I’m happy to support you!