Job search during the holidays: myths and realities

A woman on the phone using her laptop in an office

The festive season has arrived, and many job seekers often hit pause on their job hunting during the Christmas period, believing that businesses stop recruiting.

This is a myth.

The reality is that new positions are often still readily available, and hiring managers may use this lull in their business-as-usual workload to define workforce requirements for the year ahead and start the hiring process.

So, if you're considering a career change or keen to explore new opportunities, utilise some time off during the holiday period to strategically plan your job search.

Busting holiday season job search myths

There are many myths about the fruitlessness of job searching in New Zealand over the holiday period. Let's dispel the myths in favour of reality.

Myth #1: No one will look at my CV during the summer break

Some industries in New Zealand wind down towards the festive break, and if you work in such an industry, it’s easy to assume that no one will read an application sent during this time.

The reality: Your CV will stand out and many employers want positions filled for an early January start

When workloads slow, managers often use this time to catch up on other aspects of their role. Workforce planning can become more of a priority during this time, and it could be your chance to grab their attention during their quietest period. Understanding current industry trends can also help you target where hiring is actually taking place.

January often marks the start of a peak in hiring activity as NZ organisations add headcount to achieve strategic business priorities for the year ahead. Some businesses get a head-start by recruiting in December for early January start dates. To maximise your employment efforts, make sure your resume is up to date and tailored.

Myth #2: There’s no budget for recruitment

Many people assume that there’s no budget left for new roles at this time of year.

The reality: There’s urgency to recruit before budget deadlines

When budgets expire at the end of the year, there can be urgent requests to fill roles while the funds are available. With a short window to secure talent, employers want to find the right person before the year – and their budgets – close out. This sense of urgency could mean your CV could receive greater attention. Focusing your search on target companies with known year-end budget cycles can be a smart move.

Some New Zealand businesses run budgets alongside a calendar year, others through a financial year, and others again to a completely different rhythm. You shouldn’t let assumptions about organisational budgets deter you from your job search journey.

Myth #3: Only retail jobs are available at Christmas

The traditional spike in short-term seasonal retail roles leads many jobseekers to assume these are the only jobs available.

The reality: New Year hiring plans begin before Christmas

Businesses in most New Zealand industries plan their new year hiring needs in advance of the new year. Many send job descriptions to recruiters and post job advertisements before Christmas, so they can review CVs after the break. Therefore, your time could be well spent over the festive break to update your CV and send it to recruiters to ensure your application is at the top of the pile.

Myth #4: Job searching interferes with holiday plans

Everyone’s schedule is packed with holiday events and job hunting might take some time away from social activities.

The reality: A small investment now will pay dividends

Block out time to search for jobs and send your CV to relevant hiring managers or recruiters, even if it’s only a couple of hours on your first day off. Taking action at the beginning of your holiday means you can relax for the remainder of your break, knowing you’ve made some job search progress. You’ll also get a head start on those who wait until January to update and send their CV. A career coach would often recommend establishing a job search schedule to maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and achieving your career goals.

What’s next?

The festive period can be the perfect time to commence or continue your job search. With fewer job seekers in the market, you will experience less competition and could give yourself a head start.

Remember to craft compelling cover letters for each application to stand out. You could also explore networking opportunities at any holiday gatherings you attend. This effort could result in being one of the first new hires in January.

Now you are ready to begin your festive job search, follow the below steps:

Ask yourself what you want from your new job. What kind of role do you want in 2026? Is it the same or different to your current role? If you aren’t sure, our Career Goal Planner will help you consciously set your goals;
Update your CV and LinkedIn profile;
Search for jobs;
Send us your CV;
Network with relevant contacts who could aid your job search;
Refresh your interview skills and be ready to impress an employer or recruiter when they call.