For many people, the Christmas season means rest, retreat, and family time. For talent acquisition teams, however, this period offers a strategic advantage: while many companies shift into “winter mode,” you can stay active and reach the right talent at exactly the right moment. In other words: if you give your job ads visibility now, you gain a significant head start in the talent market.
While many organizations wait until January to ramp up hiring, countless candidates are already thinking about their professional future, making plans, and setting new goals. Job boards are far from quiet during this time – on the contrary: they become a stage for new opportunities. And this is where you can secure your competitive edge.
In a market where many candidates drop out due to overly complex processes – and where companies often struggle to fill critical roles – every advantage matters. Here is why posting your job ads before and during the holiday season is a smart move.
1. Candidates Are More Open to Career Changes During the Holidays
Studies show that career shifts are among the most common New Year’s resolutions – especially among younger professionals. According to a 2025 LinkedIn survey, 35% of 18–24-year-olds plan to take a career step in the new year. Other age groups are also increasingly open to change: around 27% of all employees seriously consider switching jobs around the turn of the year.
This motivation is reinforced by the desire for more meaningful work. The Gallup Engagement Index 2025 shows that 60% of employees would leave their current role if they found a more fulfilling alternative.
During the holidays, candidates spend more time researching on career sites and job boards. LinkedIn reports that 48% of users reassess their professional goals and look for new opportunities during the holiday period. Traffic on job platforms can increase by up to 45%, as candidates use quiet moments for research.
For employers, this presents a unique opportunity to reach talent at a time when they are especially receptive.
2. Less Competition in the Talent Market
Many companies reduce their recruiting activities during the Christmas season. Budgets are exhausted, HR teams focus on planning for the new year, and open positions often remain unfilled. This “winter slowdown” creates a rare window of opportunity: less competition, higher visibility, and a better chance of attracting qualified talent.
Data shows: in the first quarter, the number of job postings often increases by up to 35% once new budgets are released. In contrast, new postings drop by as much as 20% in the last two weeks of December. Those who take advantage of this quieter period gain a decisive edge.
3. Prepare Early for a Smoother Hiring Process
A fast and frictionless application process is essential: many candidates abandon applications if they take too long or require too many steps. 53% of HR leaders say their hiring processes are too slow, and 73% of candidates abandon their application if it takes longer than 15 minutes.
Pro tip: With VONQ’s Direct Apply feature, candidates can apply to your jobs instantly, with a single click – without leaving the job board. This reduces drop-offs, increases application quality, and significantly shortens time-to-hire.
4. Employer Branding: High Visibility During a High-Attention Period
Christmas and the quieter days around it mean one thing: candidates spend more time online – on social media, reading about employers, or exploring new opportunities. This is the perfect moment to share authentic insights into your company culture.
Additionally, 52% of job seekers begin their search for open roles on their smartphone – making mobile-optimised content a clear competitive advantage.
Use this time to present your company as an attractive employer and build meaningful connections with future talent.
Conclusion: Reach Top Talent Before Everyone Else Does
The Christmas season is the ideal moment to leverage recruiting strategically and secure your advantage in the talent market. While others hit pause, you can reach motivated talent early – long before the big rush begins in January.
Seize the opportunity before others do. Plan your recruiting with VONQ’s smart solutions now – and start 2026 with the best talent on board. Book a meeting with our experts today.
