During an email exchange last month with an unemployed friend who is looking for a job, we had difficulty finding a time for a Zoom call due to his jammed schedule, not mine.
When we finally talked yesterday afternoon, he explained how busy he has been with conversations and initial interviews with several organizations. Even though the holiday season may seem like an odd time to look for a new job, he confirmed what I’ve preached in previous posts about creatively ramping up job search activities. As he confirmed, this month can actually be one of the most strategic and rewarding periods for job seekers. Bottom Line: If you’re looking to break into the PR field or find a new job, perhaps ’tis the season. Here are some tips that may help your search during the holidays:
1. Take Advantage of Reduced Competition
Many candidates assume that hiring stalls in December, which means fewer résumés hit recruiters’ inboxes. Companies still need PR support for Q1 launches, annual reports, crisis communication, and planning for the year ahead. Your application is more likely to be seen—and remembered—when fewer people are applying. My friend said he is finding it far easier to schedule meetings this time of year when most schedules are more relaxed.
2. Refresh Your PR Portfolio
As the year comes to a close, take the time to update your writing samples, case studies, press releases, and media placements. In addition to sprucing up your LinkedIn profile, make yourself stand out by creating a polished digital portfolio that highlights results: metrics like earned media impressions, engagement improvements, message penetration, or successful campaign outcomes. A strong portfolio is often more persuasive than a résumé alone in the PR world. If you have limited time, focus on your LinkedIn profile. In many cases, it is far more important than your résumé.
3. Network at Seasonal Events (Even Virtual Ones)
The holidays bring countless gatherings—industry mixers, charity fundraisers, alumni events, and social celebrations. These relaxed environments can lead to meaningful conversations with professionals who may influence your next PR opportunity. Don’t over-pitch yourself; instead, focus on genuine connection. Have a quick “holiday-friendly” elevator pitch ready, and follow up with a warm message after the event.
4. Use Year-End Downtime for Research
Many PR departments slow their day-to-day pace in December, giving you time to research agencies, corporate communications teams, or nonprofit organizations you’d love to work with. Study their recent campaigns, brand voice, media strategy, and leadership team. This knowledge helps you tailor your application and prepares you for interviews that often resume in early January.
5. Touch Bases Before the New Year Rush
PR hiring managers and recruiters begin filling pipelines for Q1 in December. Sending a thoughtful outreach message—brief, personalized, and relevant—can put you on their radar early. Mention your availability for informational interviews; some recruiters have extra time for casual conversations before the rush starts.
6. Showcase Your Holiday-Season Skills
The holidays present unique communication challenges for brands, including promotional campaigns, crisis management, seasonal messaging, and internal communications. If you’ve worked on holiday-related projects, highlight them. These examples demonstrate your ability to think fast, juggle priorities, and manage high-stakes messaging. A couple of my students have volunteered to work at reception tables for PR events, such as the annual Plank Center “Milestones in Mentoring” Gala and PRSA local chapter parties, as well as similar communications events.
7. Stay Consistent When Others Pause
Continue applying, networking, and learning throughout the season. Even small actions—like taking a PR analytics or AI course, practicing media pitching, or revising your résumé—give you momentum heading into January. The holidays aren’t a slow season—they’re a strategic advantage. By staying visible, prepared, and proactive, you can position yourself for PR job opportunities that many candidates won’t even realize are available.