Why Christmas is a Great Time to Find a New Job
The Winter holidays and job hunting aren’t usually two things that go together. However, we have a few reasons why the Christmas period can be a surprisingly good time to get some early applications in.
Get more interview opportunities
If you’re a teacher with a busy schedule, it can seem impossible to fit interviews in between full days of teaching. The good news is that there can be differences between schools and their winter holiday dates. For example, you might already be off for Christmas break whilst the school you just applied for is still open. This can give you a chance to pick and choose an interview time that suits you, without having to worry about taking time off at your current job. You might have to give up a few hours of your holiday, but the added flexibility will help you relax and gives you an even better chance of smashing that interview!
Find opportunities beyond the traditional hiring cycles
While most job searches follow the traditional hiring cycle (spring and summer for new roles), many schools recruit for mid-year roles or create opportunities in response to unexpected vacancies. Searching during Christmas puts you in the perfect position to uncover these unique mid-year openings—sometimes roles that weren’t anticipated or advertised widely. You might also find that there’s less competition for these roles as they pop up at a time of the year when many others aren’t job hunting. Take this opportunity to get ahead of the game!
Get networking
The holiday season is an excellent time to connect with others . Christmas parties, community events, and holiday gatherings are all opportunities to build and strengthen your network - personally and professionally. Networking is one of the most effective ways to discover unadvertised opportunities, learn about districts that are hiring, and receive personal recommendations.
Take time during these events to let others know about your interest in exploring new roles. Share your skills, experience, and aspirations with genuine enthusiasm, and you may never know what opportunities you might uncover through word of mouth.
Stand out from the crowd
Having flexibility—whether by being open to temporary positions, part-time contracts, or mid-year opportunities—can make you a stronger candidate.
Flexibility shows employers that you’re adaptable, versatile, and eager to contribute to their institution regardless of circumstances. Additionally, interim contracts or positions during a mid-year shift can often turn into full-time opportunities with excellent benefits and long-term prospects.
The hiring process often picks up after the holidays
While it might seem counterintuitive to apply for jobs during the busy Christmas period, the hiring process for teaching roles can actually start to accelerate right after the new year. Administrators return from the holidays with renewed focus, and many will begin scheduling interviews in January.
By preparing your application materials during the Christmas season—updating your CV, refining your teaching portfolio, and identifying opportunities—you’ll be ready to hit the ground running as soon as hiring begins to ramp up. This strategic head start can set you apart by demonstrating initiative, preparedness, and enthusiasm. You’ve got this!
Make Job Hunting Merry!
It’s true - sometimes job hunting can seem like the furthest thing from fun. Put on some merry music, grab some seasonal snacks and make yourself comfortable with a cosy blanket. Even your least favourite tasks can feel easier with a bit of Christmas magic!
Don’t forget to have a rest
Although we do believe there’s some great reasons to do some job hunting over Christmas, don’t forget our most important point of all: don’t forget to have a rest! Enjoy your holiday and spend time with those closest to you. Totally Teach is always here to help you find your dream role when you need us!