As a time centred on cosiness, relaxation and family, it is easy to see why winter is the most desired season of the year. Though from outside the festive season may be a treat, for some of those in the office, the winter can be a chore; seeing the whole recruitment process gets sluggish. No matter what you call it: “winter syndrome”, “winter slowdown”, “winter strike”, “seasonal stoppage”, “silly season”, the stagnation of December is a real thing, but it need not be for recruiters. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your recruitment process does not stagger through December.

Take advantage of the winter

Just because Christmas is around the corner does not mean that all of the talent has taken their leave. Just like you, other top employees will still be in work. You can use this time wisely to weed out hot prospects. Given their bosses could be on vacations, they may have more flexible working hours, and their schedules may not be as hectic. People also tend to get more inquisitive in the winter months, wondering whether the snow is whiter on the other side.

Timing is everything

As is the case with most parts of recruitment, planning is key. Giving the precariousness of the winter months, it is vital that you give enough notice to your recruitment team or agencies that you are looking to hire. Timing with this could be the difference between a great hire or no hire.

Stay in touch

This may seem like a no-brainer, but you may be surprised at how many people, whether companies or clients, fail to mention to the other that they are taking the kids away that day. A simple call or message will prevent long-winded communication attempts, and be sure to put your out of office auto-response on before you leave.

Get real with timelines

Working to realistic timelines is crucial at every stage of the year, but even more so in the winter when you are working around the vacation schedules of HR managers, hiring managers, candidates, referees, or anyone else involved in the recruitment process. You should take all these variables into account when setting targets and dates, as you could be dealing with a lot of missing personnel.

Christmas may be the time to relax, but it can also be the time to recruit some serious talent with some purposeful timing, good communication and an eye for ability.

If you are looking to recruit or be recruited during December, be sure to contact us at RSW today!