Even with the festive season in full swing, the recruitment world doesn’t just grind to a halt, especially not in the world of education recruitment. For many of us, December is about balancing a heavy workload, achieving year-end targets and finding time to recharge – all while navigating the social side of the season. Here’s a straightforward, practical guide to finish the year strong without getting derailed or burning out.
Stay focused on your goals
As the holidays approach, it’s easy to get swept up in festive gestures, but keeping your eye on the bigger picture is key. If you have a school or client with open roles, ask yourself: is your time better spent filling those positions or making the rounds with Christmas gifts? There’s nothing wrong with spreading some holiday cheer, but placements and results will ultimately matter more to your clients.
So, if you do drop off a holiday card or gift, think of it as a brief, efficient check-in – a quick reminder of your commitment to their needs. Staying focused on filling their roles while acknowledging the season’s spirit can help you reinforce relationships without losing sight of your core goals.
Protect your time and energy
December’s shorter days and packed schedules make it all too easy to burn out. To stay at your best, be intentional about your time and boundaries. If you’re not on call, don’t take on extra tasks; instead, make use of that time to recharge. Block out windows in your schedule to take a proper lunch break, get some fresh air, or just refocus.
Prioritising well-being is about staying sharp for your clients and candidates; it’s also about avoiding unnecessary end-of-year fatigue.
Setting boundaries with colleagues and clients can make all the difference. Make it clear when you’ll be available and stick to it. Guarding your downtime protects you from burnout and keeps you focused on the tasks that matter. After all, showing up tired or distracted won’t do anyone any favours.
Take a proper break over the holidays
It’s tempting to stay plugged in even during the holiday break, especially if you’re dealing with high-demand clients. But here’s the reality: schools, candidates and clients will be winding down too. Don’t let the urge to stay “on” rob you of well-deserved rest. Use this quieter period to fully disconnect, knowing that you’re unlikely to miss any critical business. Stepping back for a few days isn’t just a luxury; it’s an investment in your own performance for the new year.
When it’s time to go on a break, commit to it. Set an out-of-office reply, delegate any responsibilities, and log out of your inbox. The quality of your work improves when you’re rested, and those who rely on you will appreciate the difference a recharged recruiter brings to the table.
Work smarter, not harder: hold a holiday gathering
December is a natural time to connect, but instead of stretching yourself thin by visiting each client or candidate individually, consider hosting a single holiday gathering. Not only does this allow you to catch up with everyone at once, but it also enables your clients and candidates to expand their own networks, offering them added value. A well-organised get-together saves you time while demonstrating that you’re thinking ahead and considering their broader interests.
By bringing everyone together in a single event, you’re also positioning yourself as a central connector in your industry. It shows clients and candidates alike that you know the value of building networks and that you’re a resource beyond recruitment. The gathering can be as simple or as festive as you like, but its value lies in the relationships it strengthens.
Close out loose ends for a smooth start in the new year
Leaving work unfinished is no way to start January. Use the last weeks of December to review any ongoing roles, tie up loose ends, and confirm details with clients and candidates. Double-check that all required paperwork is in order, and that any expected hires for the new term are set to go. Prepping for January now means you’ll return to a clear agenda, free from loose threads that could slow you down.
Communicate with your clients and candidates about any handovers or changes to ensure everyone knows what to expect in January. A quick email or message outlining your availability, any next steps, and key contacts for the break shows that you’re organised and fully prepared. Starting the new year without scrambling sets you up as a reliable partner who’s on top of their game, even through busy periods.
Bottom line
December is a balancing act, but with a sharp focus and strategic choices, you can end the year feeling accomplished and ready for a strong start in January. Use this time to prioritise what matters most, guard your well-being, and make the most of your downtime when it finally arrives. A clear mind and a prepared start are the best gifts you can give yourself heading into 2025.
