Many people assume the job market goes quiet during holiday seasons, but it is not the market that slows - it’s the hiring workflow. Demand for talent remains consistent, and vacancies don’t simply disappear. What often causes delays is the reduced availability of the individuals who drive the hiring process forward.

During school breaks and festive periods, senior decision-makers are more likely to be on annual leave. These individuals - whether they are HR leaders, IT heads, finance directors, hiring managers, or the Managing Director, play essential roles at various stages of recruitment. When even one of these key contributors is out of office, the entire process can stall.

Those in senior roles typically carry greater responsibilities outside of work, making it more common for them to book time off during peak holiday windows. Although interviews can still be scheduled and applications processed, the progression to second-stage meetings, stakeholder signoffs, and final offer approvals becomes more challenging when crucial decision-makers are unavailable. Larger organisations, where recruitment involves several layers of endorsement, can feel this slowdown even more acutely.

It is important to recognise that these delays are rarely a sign of a weakening job market or declining employer interest. Even in strong economic conditions with active candidates and healthy hiring demand, the recruitment cycle can slow simply because the right people are not available at the right time.

By understanding why these pauses occur, both employers and job seekers can better manage expectations, reduce frustration and keep momentum steady once everyone is back at their desks.

If you’d like to explore this further, get in touch today.