As Christmas approaches, many of us shift our focus to festive celebrations, family gatherings, and holiday planning. However, it’s also the perfect moment to think about your career goals for the year ahead. If you’ve been contemplating a job change, you might wonder: is this the right time to make a move? Here’s why the build-up to Christmas could be an excellent window of opportunity for your next career step: 

1. The Pre-Holiday Advantage 

Many job seekers assume that hiring slows down during the festive season, but this is a common misconception. For employers, the end of the year often comes with a push to fill roles before their annual budgets reset. This means more vacancies are posted as companies rush to finalise their recruitment plans for the new year.

Being proactive during this period can give you a significant edge. Fewer candidates actively searching means less competition for top roles. Start updating your CV, refreshing your LinkedIn profile and exploring new opportunities before Christmas

2. Beat the January Rush

January is traditionally one of the busiest months for recruitment. New Year’s resolutions and fresh budgets bring a flood of job openings, but they also attract a wave of candidates. By starting your job search in December, or earlier, you can stay ahead of the curve and secure interviews before the market becomes oversaturated.

3. Networking Opportunities

The festive season is naturally social, offering a range of opportunities to connect with others. Christmas parties, networking events and industry gatherings provide the perfect backdrop to discuss career aspirations and learn about potential openings.

Even a casual conversation over a Christmas drink can lead to valuable referrals or insights. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professional network via LinkedIn; people are often more relaxed and receptive to helping others.

4. Reflect and Realign

December is an excellent time to reflect on your career. Consider the following questions:

• Am I happy in my current role?
• Am I growing professionally?
• Does my job / current company align with my personal goals and values?

If the answers point toward dissatisfaction, it may be time for a change. The quieter moments during the Christmas period is ideal for thinking about your next move and identifying companies or industries you’re passionate about.

5. Employers Value Proactivity

Starting your job search before the new year sends a clear signal to potential employers: you’re proactive, motivated and eager to contribute. This can help you stand out from other candidates waiting until January to apply.

Tips for Making the Move

If you’re serious about changing jobs during the festive season, here are a few practical tips:

• Tailor Your Applications: Use the Christmas period to create a polished, customised CV and cover letter for each role.
• Leverage Online Platforms: Keep an eye on job boards and LinkedIn for opportunities, and don’t hesitate to apply—even during Christmas.
• Stay Patient: Some companies may take longer to respond due to Christmas closures. Stay persistent and follow up in the new year if needed.
• Upskill: Use your downtime to invest in learning new skills or earning certifications that strengthen your application.

Conclusion: A Gift to Your Future Self

The lead-up to Christmas is more than just a time for gift-giving and celebration; it’s also an opportunity to invest in your career. Even over the Christmas break, Jet2 are always on the look out for passionate individuals who want to make a difference. Check out the “Careers with us” section at the top of this page and if you have any questions, reach out to any of our amazing recruitment team who will help guide you in applying for the correct position!

So, why wait for January? Take charge of your career today, and let your next role be the greatest gift you give yourself this festive season! I’d also love to hear your thoughts so please connect with me on LinkedIn – Jack Bailey | LinkedIn. For any questions, feel free to reach out and we can arrange a conversation to see if Jet2 can offer you an exciting new chapter in your professional journey!

Merry Christmas to all who celebrate! 🎄