Before the Year Ends: 5 Smart Career Moves to Make as 2026 Arrives

Is now the right time to be looking for that next job? You bet it is! Pumpkin Spice Lattes are already scarce and Black Friday ads are everywhere, so you know time is officially moving at that amped-up holiday pace, hurtling toward the new year. This is not a time of year for waiting—especially with your career. Now is when smart job seekers make their mark, building momentum while others pause, giving themselves a decisive edge heading into the new year.

As 2026 budgets get finalized, teams start looking ahead and everyone in the hiring cycle can give closer attention to candidates who keep moving while others step back, this could be your moment to shine.

What should job seekers do in the final month of the year? Here are five deft career moves from ECLARO talent acquisition experts to work into your holiday season, each of which can help you land stronger opportunities and head into January ahead of the pack.​

1. Master Networking During Slow Season

Don’t wait for the new year’s crowd. Many industries slow down as Thanksgiving rolls around, opening a window for networking that feels more natural and social instead of purely transactional. Start reaching out to former colleagues, mentors or connections now, especially ahead of holiday parties and year-end industry events, when people are more relaxed and approachable. A well-timed message can put your name on the shortlist for upcoming projects and open doors to unadvertised opportunities.​

2. Update Your Resume with Employer Insights

Give your resume more than a cosmetic touch in a way that mirrors the roles and skills employers are looking for with Q1 2026 now a reality. Analyze recent job postings in your field and take note of phrases ad keywords that are gaining traction and update your resume and social platforms accordingly. Add measurable results and powerful action verbs, ensuring every line shows your ability to deliver value where demand is rising.​

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3. Invest in Skill-Building That Pays Off

The holiday season is perfect for deeper upskilling, certifications or portfolio projects that set you apart from the resumes that will pile up in January. Use this time to tackle training that fills gaps or elevates your current expertise. Committing to a sought-after credential or a hands-on project not only strengthens your profile but also speeds up your path to an offer when that hiring moment arrives. Tech and data roles especially reward candidates who are visibly evolving ahead of the curve.​

Related: 5 Ways Recruiters Can Help Your Job Search Right Now

4. Set and Track Career Goals with Precision

Start the year ahead by setting job search goals now— the ones that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. Lay out weekly milestones: update your LinkedIn, reach out to recruiters or enroll in a workshop or obtain online certifications. Tracking progress now builds discipline and focus, transforming what could be a scattershot January into a confident, targeted push.​

5. Position Yourself for Hidden December Hiring

There are organizations that may be racing to fill open roles before year’s end, thanks to final budget allocations or urgent project launches that need to kick of sooner than later. Savvy applicants keep an eye out and apply quickly to catch these openings before recruiters are overwhelmed in January. Tailor your resume to anticipated growth areas and make yourself available for quick interviews—even during holiday downtime—so hiring managers can move fast when they spot the right fit.​

The kickoff of the holiday season, with its unique energy and unexpected opportunities, is a time for decisive moves, not passive waiting. By acting now, you can gain access to conversations, opportunities and insights that will put you a step—or several steps—ahead of the competition as the calendar turns to 2026. The year’s final weeks offer a strategic edge for those who use them well. Your readiness today determines your results tomorrow.

Are you ready to make those moves to take your career into the future? Set up a free appointment with the ECLARO Talent Acquisition team today. We specialize in connecting the Right People with the right opportunities that fuel growth—let's discuss yours.