Is December a good time to look for a new job? It's a question we are posed a lot in our roles as recruiters, as candidates wonder whether to wind down for the festive period, or use the downtime to get ahead of the competition and apply while inboxes are quiet.

Back in 2023, we wrote about why Christmas is a good time to look for a job, and that message holds true today - perhaps even more so. With the market continuing to evolve and candidate behaviour shifting, the festive period in 2025 presents a valuable opportunity for proactive job seekers.

It’s a common misconception that the recruitment market goes quiet over Christmas. While it’s true that some businesses wind down, many others are still actively hiring, preparing for the new year, and looking to fill roles before Q1 kicks off.

For job seekers, this quieter period can offer a real opportunity. With fewer people applying and businesses planning for the year ahead, December and early January are often prime times to make progress in your career search.

Less competition from other candidates

Many candidates pause their job hunt during December, assuming that hiring managers are away or recruitment is on hold. The truth is that while activity may slow slightly, jobs are still being advertised and roles still need to be filled. Fewer applications during this time mean you are more likely to stand out in a smaller pool of candidates.

Employers plan early for the new year

For many employers, January is a key time to begin new projects, particularly in technical and infrastructure sectors. This often means onboarding needs to happen in December, with candidates starting in early January. Some hiring managers are also under pressure to use remaining budgets before year-end or risk losing them in the next financial cycle.

By applying now, you're aligning yourself with this timeline, increasing your chances of securing interviews and offers before the wider January rush.

More time to prepare and plan

The end of the year offers a chance to step back and evaluate your career goals. You may have more time away from daily work responsibilities, making it easier to update your CV, reflect on your achievements over the past year, and consider what you want next.

It’s also a good time to research companies, understand their values and priorities, and identify where your experience aligns with their plans for 2026.

Recruiters are still active

At Carrington West, December remains a busy time. Many of our clients across highways, rail, nuclear, water, and town planning are preparing for a strong start to the new year. That means they want to speak with candidates now, not later.

Recruiters typically have more time during December to engage with candidates in a meaningful way, helping you prepare for interviews, refine your CV, or understand market trends ahead of January.

Getting ahead of the January rush

January is one of the busiest months for recruitment, but it’s also the most competitive. By getting your applications in before the end of December, you're ahead of the curve. You may even be able to secure a role and hand in your notice before the new year begins.

While it may be tempting to put your job search on hold until January, staying active over the festive season can pay off. There are opportunities available now, and those who take advantage of this quieter period often find themselves better positioned when the market becomes saturated in the new year.

If you're considering a new role or simply want to understand your options, speak to a consultant at Carrington West. We’re here throughout December to help you make your next move with confidence.