Why Christmas Is One of the Most Strategic Times to Recruit

As the year winds down, many firms pause their hiring activity. Yet the Christmas period can actually be one of the most effective windows for securing strong finance and accountancy talent. While others step back, proactive teams gain an edge.

Why this time of year works

1. Candidates take stock of their careers
December often brings reflection. Many finance professionals evaluate where they stand and what they want from the year ahead. This creates a rise in meaningful conversations and genuine openness to change.

2. Competition is quieter
With fewer firms advertising or interviewing, your vacancy gains far more visibility. Skilled candidates who would normally be overwhelmed with options are easier to reach and more willing to engage.

3. Decision makers are more available
Workload slows slightly for many leadership teams before year end. This makes it easier to finalise job descriptions, agree on budgets, and move through interviews without the delays that often appear in busier months.

4. You start January ahead
If a role is already scoped, signed off, and filled before Christmas, the new hire can begin early in the year. This avoids the January scramble and ensures that teams start strong rather than firefighting gaps.

Why planning matters

Recruiting over Christmas only works well if preparation happens early. Clear timelines, defined expectations, and open communication help the process run smoothly, even when holiday schedules come into play. Planning also ensures that candidates experience a structured and professional process, which strengthens your reputation and improves acceptance rates.

How we support clients

At Downey Osborne, we help firms plan effectively so that they can take advantage of this strategic period. From shaping role requirements to managing candidate engagement and coordinating interviews around holiday calendars, we keep the process moving while ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved.

If your team is considering hiring before the new year, we are ready to guide you through the process and help you secure strong talent at the right time.