Should I Still Hire in December?

As the year draws to an end, many businesses start thinking ahead to January as the “real” time to refocus on recruitment, and it can feel natural to wait until the new year to pick hiring back up. It’s common to assume that candidates won’t be active and that January will bring a stronger talent pool.

However, December is one of the most strategic months of the year to recruit.

Significantly less competition for top candidates

The talent is there, but fewer organisations are actively approaching them. That means your vacancies can stand out more, candidate engagement is higher, and the quality of applications often improves.

Hiring now sets your business up for success in January

December naturally encourages planning for the year ahead and recruitment can be key for this. Completing your hiring process before the year ends position’s your new starters and employees to begin in January with momentum.

Instead of starting January a step behind and in a rush to fill vacancies (which can result in hiring the wrong candidate, and lead to a huge cost), begin the year with key hires already secured, which will allow everyone to hit the ground running and get off to a good start. Equally, it allows managers to focus on onboarding, growth, and hitting targets right from the get go.

The idea that “nobody hires in December” is a myth

Every year, it’s again assumed that nobody hires in December. However, once again this year, our clients are actively recruiting right through to Christmas. Applicants are engaging, interviews are happening, and offers are being made.

January start dates are attractive to candidates

Many candidates want a fresh start in the new year, and being able to offer a January start date is a strong motivator. By completing your recruitment process in December, you’re perfectly positioned to take advantage of this candidate mindset, which can create a smooth transition for both the employee and the business, helping new starters to hit the ground running.

Don’t wait for a busier, more competitive market

Delaying recruitment until January simply means entering a market where every business is hiring at once. More vacancies, more competition, slower processes, and a far busier talent market.

By pushing forward now, you avoid the January hiring rush and secure top talent before your competitors even begin the conversation.

For support with your hiring or to discuss current market insights, please do get in touch with our team today.

TEL: 01235 797 177
E: jobs@thompsonandterry.co.uk