December might feel like the slowest month in the job market, but behind the scenes there is plenty of activity going on. Hiring managers are planning next years headcount, teams are wrapping up projects and budgets are being finalised. While most job seekers hit pause, you can take action by quietly getting ahead not by spending your holidays glued to your laptop, but by completing small, strategic tasks that stack up over time.
Here’s a simple 12-day job search sprint you can follow before Christmas or across the break. Each task should only take around 15–20 minutes but together, it will put you miles ahead of everyone scrambling in January.
Day 1: Refresh the Top Third of Your CV
Most hiring managers skim, not read. Update your headline, summary and key skills so the first section instantly shows your value and ensure that it is achievement-led, not duty-led.
Day 2: Update Your LinkedIn Headline
Your headline follows you everywhere on LinkedIn, in comments, search results and recruiter feeds so ensure that it is clear, relevant and searchable. Think along the lines of this example for a Brand Manager which highlights areas of expertise that can be viewed at a glance: 'Brand Manager | FMCG | Shopper Marketing | Driving Growth Through Insight.’
Day 3: Ask Two People for Quick Endorsements
A short message like, ‘Would you mind writing a brief endorsement about our work together?’ works wonders and you will be surprised how many people will be willing to help. There is nothing like social proof to build trust fast.
Day 4: Refresh Your Profile Photo
You don’t need a professional studio, just good lighting, a neutral background and a friendly, confident expression. Updated images boost profile views significantly.
Day 5: Review Your Achievements from the Past Year
Jot down KPIs, wins, challenges overcome and projects delivered while they are all still fresh in your mind. This becomes instant CV gold and is great prep to remind you of key achievements and projects you can talk about in interviews.
Day 6: Update Your LinkedIn ‘About’ Section
Make sure you are telling your career story clearly. Explain who you are, what you’re known for and what you want from your next career move. Including or adding keywords will also help with LinkedIn’s algorithm to increase your visibility to potential employers.
Day 7: Reach Out to Three Warm Connections
Not to ask for a job, just to reconnect so you are front of mind if any opportunities were to arise. A simple, ‘Hope you’re well, would love to catch up in the New Year’ will help keep you on their radar.
Day 8: Follow 10 Companies You’d Love to Work For
In addition to seeing their content, culture and hiring announcements, its an easy way to show interest before applying.
Day 9: Customise Your CV for One Dream Job
Even if you don’t hit ‘apply’ yet, practice tailoring your CV to a specific role to sharpen your positioning and help you spot skill gaps.
Day 10: Review Your Interview Examples
Think STAR: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Prepare four to five stories that show leadership, problem-solving and resilience.
Day 11: Engage on LinkedIn for 10 minutes
Comment thoughtfully on posts from leaders, recruiters or companies you admire to increase visibility and to strengthen your personal brand.
Day 12: Map Your January Job Search Plan
By listing your target roles, industries, companies and timelines, you have an instant plan to remove overwhelm and help you hit the ground running in the new year.
This light-touch December routine helps you stay productive without sacrificing your break and while others are waiting for the ‘New Year, new job’ rush, you’ll already be on your way to increased visibility, prepared and positioned for success.
Small steps now equal big opportunities later, so why not give yourself the gift of momentum this Christmas?