As the year winds down, December often feels like a slow month for hiring but behind the scenes, it’s one of the most strategic times for both businesses and jobseekers to prepare for a strong January start. From a recruiter’s perspective, the companies and candidates who use this period wisely are the ones who hit the ground running in the new year.
For Businesses: Set Yourself Up for a Smooth January Hire
1. Finalise your hiring needs
Look at your team structure, upcoming projects, and budget. If you know you’ll need extra support in January, define the role now. A clear job spec means we can start lining up suitable candidates straight away.
2. Streamline your hiring process
Make sure decision-makers know the interview stages, timelines, and expectations. A well-organised process prevents delays and ensures you don’t lose strong candidates to more responsive employers in January.
3. Pre-book interview slots
January fills up quickly. Get interview availability in the diary now so that once CVs are submitted, we can move candidates through the process without waiting weeks for schedules to align.
4. Prepare onboarding essentials
IT access, training plans, equipment, all of this can be mapped out in December. Starting a new employee smoothly sets the tone for their success.
For Jobseekers: Don’t Wait for the New Year – Prepare Now
1. Update your CV and LinkedIn
Make sure your CV reflects your latest achievements and responsibilities. A fresh, polished profile stands out when recruiters begin shortlisting for January roles.
2. Decide what you want next
Take stock of your goals, preferred sectors, salary expectations, and non-negotiables. Knowing this now means you’ll be ready to move quickly when the right role appears.
3. Stay visible and responsive
Recruiters are actively sourcing candidates in December, even if interviews take place in January. Keeping an eye on your emails and being open to conversations puts you ahead of the crowd.
4. Use quiet time wisely
If your workplace slows down over Christmas, use the downtime for applications, interview prep, or improving your professional skills.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
While many assume hiring shuts down until January, the reality is the opposite. Businesses want to start the year with the right people already lined up and jobseekers want a fresh start. The most successful hires in January are usually the result of preparation done now.
Whether you’re a business planning to strengthen your team or a jobseeker ready for a new challenge, December is your opportunity to get ahead.
If you’d like help preparing for January hiring or job searching, now’s the perfect time to reach out.
