How To Handle the Holiday Hiring Freeze

Brady Hitchcock
12/13/2023
Find Work

The holiday hiring freeze is upon us. The time of year when hiring managers who ‘really wanted to get someone in place before January’ suddenly seize up in the cold weather. Like animatronic snowmen in a storefront window, they can barely make a move. Their batteries are exhausted from Q4 budget meetings and they get stuck in a loop of, “Keep them warm, keep them warm, keep them warm…” We started sending out hats, scarves, and mittens to candidates because we tried everything else we could think of to ‘keep them warm’ this time of year.

So, how can you make the most of the holiday hiring freeze? Well, if you’re a hiring manager, it’s easy - hire someone! It’s literally your job and now is your last, best chance to secure top talent while your colleagues (competition) are busy window shopping. By the time they thaw out in Q1, your team will be stocked up, locked in, and ready to rock the new year!

If you’re a job seeker, this is a good time not only to stay warm but to stay sharp. Use your downtime to practice interviewing, polish up your resume, or learn a new skill. Better yet, ease your burden and improve your odds of finding a job by working with a recruiter. If you’re not sure about what we do and how we can help, check out this guide for prospective candidates, then drop us a line. We’re here all year, open to all conversations, and always hiring!

Here are the TOP TEN ways candidates can capitalize on this slowdown:

1. Skill Enhancement through Learning Opportunities:

Utilize online courses, webinars, and tutorials to upskill or learn new skills relevant to your industry. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer numerous courses across various fields, allowing job seekers to expand their skill sets. Snag a certification of some sort if you can!

2. Resume Refinement and Optimization:

Take the time to review and update your resume. Tailor it to highlight accomplishments, quantify achievements, and ensure it aligns with the specific job roles you're targeting. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or professionals in your network to refine your resume further. Use real data and include NUMBERS. The top third of the first page is critical! Find more resume help here.

3. Networking and Building Connections:

Use this period to expand your professional network. Engage in virtual networking events, connect with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and nurture relationships with colleagues, mentors, or alumni. Networking can uncover hidden job opportunities and provide valuable insights. Check out the events calendars for local BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS for networking opportunities.

4. Practicing Interviewing Skills:

Practice and refine your interviewing skills. Conduct mock interviews with friends, family, or career advisors to improve confidence, articulate your experiences clearly, and answer common interview questions effectively. Record and review these mock interviews to identify areas for improvement. Dig into our complete INTERVIEW GUIDE for more.

5. Personal Branding and Online Presence:

Enhance your online presence and personal branding. Update your LinkedIn profile with recent achievements, endorsements, and a professional profile picture. Share industry-related content or insights to showcase your expertise and engage with your professional network. There are loads of simple, helpful tutorials and videos on enhancing your online presence, wherever you spend your time. Check out this HOT SITE for much, much more

6. Volunteering and Freelance Projects:

Consider volunteering or taking on freelance projects related to your field during the holiday season. Not only does this expand your experience, but it also demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and skill development. It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many of us, do some good for those who are struggling.

7. Research and Company Targeting:

Use this time to research companies you're interested in working for. Understand their cultures, values, and recent developments. Tailor your applications to these companies, showcasing how your skills align with their objectives. Everyone loves to hear their own names and that folks know about their company. When you show up for an interview truly prepared you’ll have an edge over other prospects.

8. Self-Reflection and Goal Setting:

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS! Reflect on your career aspirations and set goals for the upcoming year. Evaluate your strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Draft a plan outlining steps to achieve your career objectives and milestones. Where do you see yourself this time next year?

9. Professional Development Reading and Podcasts:

Engage in reading industry-related books, articles, or listening to podcasts. Staying updated with the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in your field demonstrates your commitment to ongoing professional development. Join a business book club or start your own. Maybe lay off the true crime stuff for a month or two.

10. Mindfulness and Self-Care:

Last, but definitely not least, prioritize self-care and mindfulness during this downtime. Engaging in activities that reduce stress, such as meditation, exercise, or hobbies, can rejuvenate you and prepare you for future job-seeking endeavors. Get outdoors, spend time with loved ones, and most importantly, LOVE YOURSELF!

Don’t let the holiday hiring freeze frustrate you further. Remember, this slowdown offers a unique window for job seekers and candidates to invest in themselves, refine their skills, and prepare for future career opportunities. By utilizing this time wisely, individuals can position themselves as more competitive and attractive candidates in the job market when activities pick up in the new year.

Happy job hunting and happy holidays!