The holidays are a time for relaxation, family, and celebration. For many military spouses, it also brings a unique set of challenges balancing family life with career ambitions.

While it may feel like a time to pause your job search, this time can offer distinct advantages for career advancement. Here’s why staying active in your job search through the holiday season can be a strategic move—and how to make the most of it.

Less Competition Means Better Opportunities

While hiring may seem to slow during the holidays, it’s a prime time to uncover new opportunities.With fewer job seekers active during the holidays, competition is lower, increasing your chance to stand out to potential employers.

The end-of-year slowdown also means hiring managers are more willing to consider candidates for interviews and make quick hiring decisions before the new year.

Seasonal Jobs Can Lead to Permanent Positions

The holiday season brings a variety of seasonal opportunities in retail, customer service, hospitality, and more. While typically temporary, they can often lead to permanent employment if you excel in the role.

For military spouses, seasonal jobs provide a chance to gain experience, network with professionals, and expand your resume without needing to commit long-term.

Networking During the Holidays Is Easier

Holiday gatherings—both virtual and in-person—can offer unique networking opportunities. People are more open to engage in conversations about career goals and future plans.

Whether it’s a casual holiday party or a virtual networking event, this season is an excellent time to meet new contacts, reconnect with past colleagues, and stay visible in your industry.

You Can Use This Time to Upskill and Learn

Use the holiday downtime to invest in professional development. Online courses, software training, or gaining industry specific knowledge, can strengthen your resume and show employers that you’re committed to growth.

Upskilling boosts your competitiveness as a candidate and may open doors to new career paths.

You Control Your Schedule

As a military spouse, your schedule can be unpredictable. The holidays can offer a break from routine, making it a great time to refocus on your job search without distraction.

With many companies adopting flexible schedules, you can tailor your job search to fit your availability maximizing your efforts.

Consider Volunteer Work

If job opportunities are limited during the holidays, consider volunteering with organizations that align with your interests and career goals. Volunteering enhances your resume, and can lead to paid positions, as organizations often hire from their volunteer pools.

It’s a great way to gain valuable experience, expand your professional network, and build meaningful connections in your community or field.

Practice Self-Care and Stay Positive

Job searching can be stressful, especially during the holidays. It’s important to prioritize self-care, take breaks, engage in activities that bring you joy, and remember that you are more than your job search.

Success takes time.

Lean on your support system and seek help when needed.

The holiday season is traditionally a time for rest and celebration, but it is also an opportunity for career advancement. With less competition, seasonal job opportunities, and increased networking possibilities, the holidays offer unique advantages.

So, instead of putting the job search on hold, use this time as a chance to move forward in your career journey. 

Happy holidays and happy job hunting!

*Written by Elizabeth Krause

Beth is a Transition Specialist with the Serving Spouses Team at Hire Heroes USA. She is a new Army spouse and understands the struggles of leaving a job and finding work that will move with each PCS.

She has a background in healthcare and previously worked as a Recreational Therapist.

As a passionate helping professional, Beth is excited to give back by empowering military spouses in finding meaningful employment

*For more from HHUSA, check out their Expert Blog Page.