How to Stay Visible to Employers During the Holiday Season
When the holidays arrive, many job seekers hit pause on their search. But if you are looking to make a career move in early 2026, this is not the time to go dark. While the pace of hiring may slow slightly during December, many companies are already preparing for the new year and evaluating candidates to bring on board in January and February.
Staying visible now can give you a competitive edge when those roles open up. Here are several ways to stay active and top of mind with employers during the holiday season.
Update and Refresh Your Resume and Online Profiles
Take time to review your resume, LinkedIn profile, and any job board accounts. Make sure your most recent experience, certifications, and skills are up to date. Include any project work, seasonal roles, or freelance experience from the past year. A fresh and well-branded profile signals to recruiters that you are serious and ready for new opportunities.
Stay Connected With Your Network
Holiday gatherings and year-end messages offer a natural opportunity to reconnect with your professional network. Whether it is a former colleague, manager, or professor, send a friendly note to check in. Express your interest in new roles for the new year and ask if they know of any opportunities or can offer referrals. Even a casual conversation can lead to a valuable connection.
Don’t Stop Applying
Some candidates assume no one hires in December, but that is a misconception. Many companies want to have candidates lined up to start in early 2026 or need to use their budget before the year ends. Keep checking job boards and submitting applications. Being one of the few active applicants during this time can help you stand out.
Attend Events and Join Conversations
Virtual and in-person events often continue through the holiday season. These include industry webinars, finance networking events, or even local business mixers. Attending events not only shows commitment to your field but also opens the door to conversations with hiring managers, recruiters, and peers.
Work With a Specialized Recruiter
One of the smartest moves you can make during a quieter season is to partner with a recruiting firm like PrideStaff Financial. We can help you stay active behind the scenes by promoting your qualifications to top employers, identifying roles that match your goals, and preparing you for success in the new year.
Stay Positive and Prepared
The holiday season is also a good time to reflect on your career goals. What do you want your next role to offer? What skills do you want to develop in 2026? When opportunities appear in January, being clear on your direction will help you move quickly and with confidence.
Let PrideStaff Financial Help You Stand Out
We are here to support your job search every season. Connect with PrideStaff Financial today to stay visible to top employers and get a head start on 2026 hiring.
