Hire Before Christmas? Here's Why It Matters
Every year, I see the same thing happen you tell yourself you'll "start fresh" in January. You plan to post your job ads, review applications, and kick off the new year with new hires. But by the time you're ready to move, the best talent has already been snapped up.
Recent data shows UK business hiring appetite has dropped to one of the lowest levels in years. Many firms are saying: "We'll wait until next year before recruiting." And while that may feel cautious, it carries real risk.
If you're thinking about hiring, here's why now — not January — is the perfect time for you to act.
Four Reason Why to Hire Now
1. The Competition Is Quiet
Most companies pause their recruitment efforts in November and December. That means fewer job ads, fewer offers, and less noise in the market. For you, that's a huge advantage. Right now, talented professionals are still active and looking but they're seeing fewer opportunities. With fewer applicants active, your vacancy will stand out instantly and you'll attract quality candidates who aren't drowning in other offers.
2. Early Onboarding Sets You Up For Success
When you bring someone onboard before the holidays, they start the year ready to go. They'll already understand your systems, meet your team, and hit the ground running in January instead of losing precious weeks to training and admin.
Even if you wait until January to start your search, you may only have someone in place by late Q1 meaning you've lost much of the quarter already. Plus, let's be honest: onboarding in a quieter season often means a smoother transition for everyone involved.
3. You Avoid the January Rush and Q1 Scramble
Once January hits, every business is hiring at once. The inboxes of great candidate’s overflow, salaries get driven up, and timelines drag out. By acting now, you avoid all that noise and secure the people you need while others are still "waiting for the new year."
Don't let delaying now mean you're scrambling in Q1. By scoping your requirements and initiating candidate engagement before Christmas, you avoid the rush and ensure you're ready to offer quickly when the right person appears.
4. It Boosts Morale and Momentum
Ending the year with new hires energizes your team. It shows your business is growing, investing, and looking ahead. There's something powerful about walking into January with everything and everyone already in motion.
If you've been thinking about expanding your team, don't wait for the holiday slowdown to pass. The best time for you to act is right now. Let's flip "we'll wait until the new year" into "let's be ready now" and beat the holiday rush together.
