When December rolls around, many job seekers take their foot off the gas. They assume that hiring slows down, that recruiters are out of the office, and that it’s better to wait until January to apply. In reality, this is a missed opportunity.
For Texas job seekers, the holiday season can actually be one of the best times to search for a job. Employers still need to fill critical roles before year-end, and many companies use December to plan ahead for the first quarter. If you keep your search active while others pause, you can gain a major advantage.
Here are holiday job search hacks that can help you land work when others are slowing down.
1. Leverage the Seasonal Hiring Surge
Many Texas industries ramp up during the holiday season. Retail, logistics, customer service, and healthcare are classic examples. But even professional sectors such as accounting, legal, and IT often hire contract staff to help finish projects before the new year.
These short-term or temporary opportunities can quickly become stepping stones to permanent roles. Employers are impressed when candidates prove themselves during busy periods.
Pro tip: Don’t overlook project-based work. A December contract job could turn into a January offer.
2. Stand Out in a Less Crowded Job Market
Because so many candidates press pause on their search, your competition thins out dramatically in November and December. That means your resume is more likely to get noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.
In fact, studies show that companies still post jobs in December—they just receive fewer applications. For Texas job seekers, this creates the perfect window to secure interviews.
Pro tip: Apply to openings as soon as you see them posted. With fewer applicants, early action increases your chances of getting called.
3. Network at Holiday Gatherings
The holidays bring people together, and that can work in your favor. Whether you’re attending a professional mixer, a community charity event, or even a family gathering, be open about your job search.
Networking doesn’t have to be formal. A casual conversation can lead to someone saying, “My company is hiring; let me connect you.” Texas employers often rely on referrals this time of year when time is short.
Pro tip: Update your LinkedIn before networking. It’s often the first place new contacts will look after meeting you.
4. Refresh Your Resume and Online Profiles
The end of the year is a natural time to reflect and update. Make sure your resume, LinkedIn profile, and any online portfolios highlight your most recent accomplishments.
Employers looking to fill roles quickly in Texas want to know you’re job-ready. A fresh, polished profile signals that you’re serious about your search and prepared to start the new year strong.
Pro tip: Use keywords from Texas job postings in your resume to align with what employers are seeking.
5. Be Flexible with Timing
One reason companies hesitate to hire in December is fear of delays. If you can be flexible with start dates, such as beginning immediately or after the holidays, you’ll make yourself more attractive as a candidate.
Employers love problem solvers who make their decision easier. Offering availability in January while interviewing now ensures you’re top of mind once holiday schedules settle.
Pro tip: Communicate your flexibility clearly in interviews; it can be the factor that sets you apart.
6. Partner with a Texas Staffing Agency
Finally, one of the smartest moves you can make is working with a staffing firm. Agencies often see a surge in holiday job orders, especially for roles that need to be filled quickly. Many of these jobs are never posted publicly, meaning you won’t see them on job boards.
At Burnett Specialists, we connect candidates across Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, and El Paso with both seasonal and permanent opportunities. Our employee-owned team is invested in helping you succeed, and the holidays are no exception.
Don’t let the holiday season hold back your career goals. Request information today and let Burnett Specialists help you land your next opportunity—just in time for the new year.
