The run-up to Christmas is often seen as a time when hiring slows down, inboxes go quiet, and companies hit pause until January. But for many employers, the festive season offers one of the most strategic windows of the year to find and secure great talent. If you’re looking to strengthen your team, here’s why Christmas might actually be the best time to recruit.
Less competition from other employers
January is one of the busiest hiring months, which means job adverts get flooded with competition. By contrast, December is quieter in the recruitment market. Fewer businesses post new roles, giving your vacancy more visibility and a better chance of standing out.
With less noise, your adverts get more traction and you’re more likely to attract high quality applicants who are ready to move.
Candidates have more time to reflect on their careers
Christmas often gives people a rare pause to reflect on their work-life balance, career satisfaction, and goals for the year ahead. Many decide during this time that they’re ready for a new challenge.
Job seekers who apply in December tend to be genuinely motivated, career-focused candidates. not just those firing off applications because “it’s the new year.”
This means the talent pool you’re drawing from may be smaller, but far more intentional.
Notice periods work in your favour
If you want a full team ready to start strong in January or early spring, hiring before Christmas is ideal. Many candidates have one-month notice periods, so offering them a role in December allows them to start at the perfect time, rather than losing weeks of productivity waiting for the right hire.
It shows your business is forward-thinking
Recruiting over Christmas sends a positive message: your company plans ahead, invests in growth, and values continuity. This makes your brand more attractive to potential employees who want stability and vision in a workplace.
It also means you’re not scrambling to hire in January when demand (and competition) peaks.
Easier internal onboarding & planning
December is typically calmer operationally for many industries—making it an excellent month to:
By the time the new year arrives, your new hires can hit the ground running.
Temp-to-perm opportunities are abundant
Christmas is a peak season for temporary workers, especially in retail, hospitality, logistics, and customer service. Hiring temps during this period gives you the perfect opportunity to assess potential permanent employees in real time.
Many businesses discover outstanding long-term staff this way.
Candidates appreciate responsiveness during a slow season
Because many employers slow recruitment efforts in December, candidates often expect delays. When you communicate quickly, interview promptly, and make decisions efficiently, you immediately stand out as a desirable employer.
This can help you secure great talent before January’s rush begins.
Summing up
Recruiting during the Christmas period is more than just a strategic move; it’s a competitive advantage. With less employer competition, more motivated candidates, and the chance to align start dates with the new year, companies can secure exceptional talent while others hit pause.
If you want to step into January energised and ready to grow, the time to recruit is now, before the rest of the market wakes up!
If you do decide to get recruiting in December and would like some help with the advertising and search, One to One Personnel would be happy to assist you in whichever way you chose. We are here to help! www.onetoonepersonnel.co.uk
