The Do’s and Don’ts of Job Applications During the Winter Holidays
By Career Advice

The winter holiday season can feel like a tricky time to apply for work. People are on leave, businesses slow down (or get dramatically busier) and your own time is stretched between family plans, travel, and festivities. But smart, strategic job seekers can actually turn the holidays to their advantage. 

Below are key do’s (things you should do) and don’ts (things to avoid) to help you stay ahead during the holiday job hunt.

☑️Do’s

1. Do apply early and stay proactive

  • Many employers want to fill temporary roles before the actual holiday rush. Getting your application in early shows you’re organised and committed.
  • Use quieter moments to polish your CV and submit applications. Here’s some of our CSA tips to writing a winning CV.
  • Even if you don’t expect an immediate start, applying now positions you for early consideration once business picks up again in January. The hiring momentum often resumes in the new year if opportunities aren’t available right now.

2. Do highlight your flexibility and availability

  • Over the holidays, businesses often need people who can jump in on short notice or cover irregular shifts. Make sure your availability (dates, times etc) is clear in your application.
  • Be open to flexible interview slots. Being accommodating can help you stand out to busy Hiring Managers who are juggling multiple projects.
  • If you have travel or family plans, mention them upfront (briefly) so employers know when you’ll be reachable. Transparency builds trust.

3. Do use your time to prepare and network

  • Even if you’re not actively applying every day, the holiday lull is a great time to refresh your LinkedIn page, gather references, and write or fine-tune your cover letters.
  • Reach out to former managers, colleagues, or contacts with a quick holiday greeting and mention that you’re looking for new opportunities. Often informal messages reopen doors.
  • Practice interview questions, do mock interviews, and research companies so you’re ready when calls come through.

❌ Don’ts

1. Don’t overcommit or misrepresent your availability

  • If you promise full availability but then pull back due to holiday plans or fatigue, it reflects poorly. Be honest about when you can and cannot work.
  • Don’t promise you’ll start immediately if you have travel or family commitments you can’t avoid.

2. Don’t use a generic, “one-size-fits-all” application

  • Many job seekers assume “any temp job is fine” and send a generic CV or letter. But that won’t impress or reflect your relevant skillset. Instead, tailor each application to the role. Emphasise the skills and experiences hiring managers will want to see.
  • Even in seasonal roles, small tweaks (e.g. “I have experience in high‐volume retail,” or “I’m familiar with shift work”) can help your application stand out and show the value you’d bring.

3. Don’t be discouraged by slow responses or delays

  • Hiring can sometimes slows around holidays. Recruiters and decision-makers may be on leave or busy with closures. Don’t assume silence is rejection.
  • Avoid sending overly frequent “where’s my update?” messages. Instead, follow up politely with a short note reiterating interest.
  • Don’t give in to the idea that “no one is hiring now.” Many companies still recruit during December to fill gaps or hit year-end goals or even preparing for the new year ahead.

Still looking out for Christmas work?

It can be tough getting your foot in the door at such a busy time of the year, but our team as CSA Recruitment are here to help. We have a range of immediate, temporary roles to fill on behalf of our wonderful clients across South Wales and beyond.

View our current Christmas jobs, or speak to our team to discover how we can best help.