The holiday season is a busy time for everyone, and if you’re a mom in tech looking to apply for a new job, you might wonder whether it’s worth the effort to apply during this time of year. It can feel like a tricky balance—between holiday preparations, family commitments, and work life—but surprisingly, the holiday season can actually be a great time to step up your job search. Let’s explore the pros and cons of applying for jobs during the holidays, along with some tips to stay consistent and motivated as you prepare for the new year.
The Pros: Why Holiday Job Hunting Can Work in Your Favor
- Less Competition
During the holiday season, many job seekers take a break from applying, assuming that nothing will happen until the new year. This can actually work to your advantage! With fewer people actively applying, your application might stand out more than it would in a busier month. Recruiters and hiring managers may have fewer resumes to review, giving you a better chance to be noticed. - Companies Are Still Hiring
While it’s true that some businesses may slow down, others are eager to fill roles before the end of the year. This is especially true for companies with budget goals or new projects starting in the new year. For many positions, the hiring process continues through the holidays, meaning you could get a jump start on opportunities that will be crucial for your career in 2025. - Holiday Networking
With holiday parties, virtual meetups, and festive events on the calendar, it’s also a prime time to network. Whether you’re meeting people at holiday gatherings or connecting with colleagues on social media, the holiday season offers a chance to make connections that could lead to new opportunities. Even a casual conversation can lead to a referral or valuable insight into job openings in your field.
The Challenges: What to Keep in Mind
- Slower Response Times
While companies may still be hiring, it’s also a time when many people are out of the office or focused on end-of-year tasks. This can result in slower response times to applications or interviews. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back right away—this doesn’t mean you’re not a strong candidate. Stay patient and keep applying! - Distractions and Busy Schedules
With holiday shopping, family gatherings, and other commitments, it can be tough to focus on job applications. You may find it harder to carve out time for interviews or to write thoughtful cover letters. However, the key here is to manage your time wisely. You don’t need to apply to 20 jobs in one week—start by setting aside small blocks of time each day to work on your applications, and try to stay consistent. - Burnout Risk
Trying to juggle everything during the holidays can lead to burnout. It’s important to recognize when you need a break. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to pause your job search for a bit and come back to it when you’re feeling more refreshed. Job hunting can be a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s essential to pace yourself.
Staying Consistent and Motivated
Even with these challenges, don’t let the holiday season derail your job search efforts. Here are some practical ways to stay on track:
- Set Realistic Goals
Set small, achievable goals each week. For example, commit to sending out three applications or connecting with two people on LinkedIn. Breaking down your job search into manageable tasks can keep you from feeling overwhelmed, and you’ll feel accomplished each time you hit a milestone. - Use the Time to Prepare for the New Year
The holidays are the perfect time to reflect on your career goals, update your resume, or take a free online course to learn a new skill. Even if you’re not actively applying, taking small steps like polishing your LinkedIn profile or preparing for interviews can put you ahead of the game once the new year kicks off. - Stay Positive and Patient
Job hunting can be a rollercoaster, but remember that persistence pays off. Celebrate the small wins, like getting your resume updated or hearing back from a recruiter. Your efforts now will set you up for success in the new year. Stay confident, and keep moving forward!
In Conclusion: Embrace the Holiday Job Search
Applying for jobs during the holidays may not always feel like the easiest option, but with the right mindset and strategy, it can be an opportunity for growth. The quieter season can work in your favor with less competition and hiring still happening in many industries. So, stay proactive, set manageable goals, and use the time to reflect, connect, and prepare for what’s to come. The new year is full of possibilities, and getting a head start on your job search now could set you up for success in 2025.
Remember, you’ve got this!
