There is a common misconception that the job market slows down during holiday periods, but it is not the market itself that slows; it is often the hiring process. Demand for talent and job opportunities remains steady, but the availability of key personnel involved in recruitment can be limited. Senior decision-makers, who play a crucial role in finalising hiring decisions, are often more likely to take time off during school holidays, festive periods, or vacation. These senior figures, such as IT leads, HR professionals, finance heads, hiring managers, and even the Managing Director, may all be part of the recruitment process, and their absence can delay progress.

People in senior roles often have family commitments or other responsibilities that require them to take leave during peak holiday or vacation times. While the job market continues to function, the ability to move candidates through interviews, approvals, and final sign-offs becomes constrained when key decision-makers are unavailable. This is particularly true for larger organisations, where multiple layers of approval may be needed before a job offer can be extended. As a result, candidates may experience a slower-than-expected process, even in a competitive market.

Ultimately, delays in hiring during holiday and vacation periods have little to do with broader economic conditions. The economy may be strong, and job seekers may be actively searching, but if the key individuals involved in the hiring process are unavailable to provide input or approve decisions, the process inevitably slows. Understanding this can help manage expectations and reduce frustration for both job seekers and employers.

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