December is often considered a “slow season” in the business world, especially when it comes to hiring. Yet, this perception is actually what makes it a golden opportunity for networking. With fewer people actively job searching, the holiday season becomes an ideal time to connect with others in your industry, build relationships, and even position yourself for new opportunities in the coming year.
Here’s why December is prime time for networking and how it can set you up for success in the new year.
1. Less Competition, More Visibility
Many people take a break from job searching in December, assuming that companies won’t be hiring or that key decision-makers are unavailable. But this reduced competition can actually work to your advantage. Networking during December often means there are fewer people vying for attention, which can make it easier to stand out.
In fact, research from LinkedIn has shown that engagement on professional networking sites doesn’t drop significantly in December; in some cases, it increases. This can make it the perfect time to reach out and establish new connections while others may be waiting until January.
2. A Season for Goodwill and Openness
The holiday spirit tends to make people more receptive to networking requests and conversations. Studies on human behavior, including research from Harvard Business Review, have shown that people feel more open to helping others during the holiday season due to a boost in positive emotions. This makes it an ideal time to ask for informational interviews, seek advice, or simply reach out for a friendly coffee chat.
Executives and senior managers who might be swamped with work during other parts of the year often have lighter schedules or feel more relaxed in December. This can increase your chances of getting a response or even securing a meeting with someone who could influence your career.
3. Planning Season for the New Year
Many organizations use December to plan for the upcoming year. As budgets are set and hiring needs are identified, managers start thinking about the talent they’ll need to bring on board. While formal hiring might slow down, it’s a perfect time to introduce yourself as someone who could help them reach their goals in the coming year. By connecting with key people in December, you’re positioning yourself as a familiar name when new roles open in January.
According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), many HR leaders look to fill vacancies in the first quarter, which is why connecting with them in December can give you a head start.
4. Opportunities for Informal Networking
The holiday season brings with it countless opportunities for informal networking. From holiday parties to industry events, this time of year is ripe for casual conversations and spontaneous connections that can lead to career benefits. Engaging in conversations without a hard-sell approach makes it easier to build genuine relationships. When positions open up in January, your name will be top of mind for those you connected with during the holiday period.
5. A Foundation for January Job Searching
Starting new connections in December sets you up for an active January job search. By making yourself visible now, you’re already ahead of the curve when recruiters and hiring managers return in the new year, often with renewed hiring budgets. You’ll have your network prepped and warmed up, so it’s easier to tap into new opportunities.
How to Network During December
- Reconnect with Old Contacts: Send a holiday message to rekindle professional relationships and check in with old colleagues or mentors.
- Request Informational Interviews: With people feeling more generous with their time, December is a great time to request informational interviews or casual chats.
- Attend Industry Events: Even virtual events can help you make meaningful connections.
- Send Personalized Holiday Greetings: A personalized message is a great way to stay top-of-mind and add a warm touch to your networking efforts.
In short, December may be the end of the calendar year, but it’s the perfect time to jump-start your career for the year ahead.
