Job Hunting During the Holidays: Balancing Career Search and Self-Care

By Lee Eggleston

December is a great time to pounce on job opportunities; there is a flurry of activity within the Accounting space as hiring managers look to lock in their hires with a start date after the holiday break. Whilst it is important to be proactive in the festive season from a job hunt perspective, it is also important to recharge your batteries when the holidays come around. 

It is the fastest-moving time of the year in the Australian market. Contracts get signed right up to Christmas Eve!

Even if you are reading this and you don’t seem to have many opportunities advancing as we reach December, don’t give up just yet – the market is in full swing.

Jobseekers mistakenly believe the job market is on pause. Less competition for you! Picture it as a boardroom with fewer players – capitalise on the hush, submit those applications, and claim your prime position!

What’s my advice for a jobseeker in December?

Make the most of recruiters

Simply put, recruiters are often the first port of call for hard-to-fill roles or when a candidate falls through for a hiring organisation. Lawson Delaney is privy to roles that are not advertised and we are working with numerous companies who are looking to hire before the Christmas shutdown so please reach out. We can put all the work in for you, to reduce any stress!

Take time out if you need it

Alternatively to seeking new job opportunities, if you have had no luck securing your dream job so far and are feeling frustrated, anxious, jaded or anything else that will give off a bad vibe, take time out to tend to yourself and get back to feeling good, projecting a calm and happy presence. If you’re struggling in this regard, please feel free to reach out to Lawson Delaney – we are always happy to help you out. 

Whilst it is important to attack December hard with your job search, it is equally as important to double down on your self-care. Whether it be running, yoga, walking, meditation, or cooking nice food, go big on whatever works to keep you feeling happy and grounded. It’s essential that when the opportunity presents itself, you come across as relaxed, refreshed, happy and ready to embark on a new challenge. 

Enjoy your holidays!

Give it your best but when the bell rings on Christmas Eve, then it’s time to down tools, go to the beach (or stay indoors if we get the usual Melbourne weather), enjoy the festivities and do all the festive things you love to do. 

Whatever you do, don’t stop believing in Santa too early in December – you may just get the best present when you are least expecting. I am happy to put on my Santa hat, and help you in any way that I can.

For more information how put your best foot forward or to discuss the market and roles that are currently available, please contact us on 03 9946 7300 or support@lawsondelaney.com.au

Lawson Delaney is a leading executive search and professional recruitment firm based in Melbourne. We specialise in recruiting CEOs and leadership teams, and accountants of all seniorities for Accounting firms.