Kristina FinsethDecember 06, 2016
Topics: Recruiter Experience

Don't Bother Recruiting in December?

Now that we are in the final month of 2016, it’s easy to just get into the holiday spirit and forget about recruiting goals. After all – recruiters, hiring managers, and job-seekers are probably ignoring applications, taking vacation time, and really aren’t that motivated right now.

In fact, let’s all just take a break this month, and hit the ground running after the holidays, right?

Wrong.

In fact, there are quite a few myths associated with recruiting in December, and I think it’s time to squash some of them.

Myth #1: Generally speaking, job-seekers have very limited availability to interview right now.

Truth: Most candidates have an easier time making themselves available for interviewing for a couple of reasons.

One – candidates are taking off of work early or taking PTO during the holiday season, freeing them up for scheduling interviews for the positions that truly interest them.

Two – it’s easier for candidates to not only think of excuses to leave work early or come in late, but their bosses are more apt to be lenient due to the holidays.

Myth #2: Internal and external hiring managers don’t have any time to schedule interviews.

Truth: Most hiring managers have fewer obligations in the month of December.

With lots of employees taking time off throughout the month, it can make it difficult to get people together in the same place at one time for meetings, training or conferences.

In this case, it’s easier for recruiters to push a little harder for interview availability.

Myth #3: Since December tends to be when bonuses are paid out, most candidates receiving a year-end bonus won’t want to switch positions at this time.

Truth: Yes, year-end bonuses are important, and it would be ridiculous for a candidate to leave before getting that pay-out from their current employer.

However, what if their bonus was smaller than expected? Or, what if they just want to stay for the bonus pay-out, but are still looking for new opportunities in the new year?

A lot of companies will understand if a prospective candidate wants to stay for their bonus pay-out, and will allow them to start after that happens.

Myth #4: A lot of companies have placed their hiring needs on hold until budgets are renewed in 2017.

Truth: Most companies already know what their 2017 budget looks like, and what talent they need to seek rolling into the new year. Smart recruiters are planners – and getting a head start on interviewing, and negotiating offers for start dates in the new year are a priority to them.

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Instead of slacking on your recruiting strategy this month – take the time to continue engaging with prospective talent, pushing your hiring managers to make decisions, and finish out the year strong. With 2017 right around the corner, it’s important to keep pushing toward your recruiting goals.

So, how do you keep your recruiting momentum going during the month of December?

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