Bethany Windsor, careers expert for Generation Logistics, shares her top tips on how January job-hunters can set themselves up for a successful 2026. This follows research that the first month of the year consistently ranks as one of the strongest months for those looking for a new job¹.
“While December is typically the slowest month for hiring permanent positions, January sees hiring managers return after the festive break, and with them comes a wave of fresh opportunities for job hunters.” Bethany notes.
1. New Year, New CV
Your CV is the very first impression a potential employer will receive, so it is crucial that it is up-to-date, grammatically correct, and clearly demonstrates what you can bring to the table.
It is essential to tailor your CV to each role and company that you apply for. Personalising your application to the specific job, company and sector can help ensure that you stand out during the first stage of the hiring process.
2. Timing Is Key
We have established that January is a critical month for job-hunting but narrowing it down even further can put your application in front of the right person at the right time.
Consider the time of day that you apply for a role - for example, a Monday morning email will be more likely to be reviewed promptly than one sent late on Friday night.
It is also worth considering the time of month for your application - the first working weeks of January will involve forward-planning from companies, so job-seekers can expect to see most roles sprout up from mid-January onwards. Prepare everything you might need in advance of this period, so that you will be ready to hit the ground running when the opportunities arise.
3. Show off your love to learn
Demonstrating your love of learning can make you stand out for prospective employers and increase your chances of securing the job.
Whether that be attending short courses, gaining certifications or sitting in on webinars in the field you are applying in, these steps will show off your commitment to growth and improvement.
4. Practice to prepare
Interviews can be daunting, so preparation is key. Practicing responses to common interview questions and being ready to share examples of your strengths, challenges, and accomplishments can help to ease the nerves. What is more, practicing your responses out loud - ideally with a friend or mentor - can help you to build confidence and ensure you can show how you communicate clearly under pressure.
Bethany Windsor, careers expert and Programme Director for career development campaign Generation Logistics, concludes:
“By taking advantage of the opportunities available in the new year, job-hunters will be able to prepare for success and put themselves on the front foot against the competition. With typically more roles available in January than any other time of year, it’s crucial that those who may be looking for a new job use the start of the new year to prepare.
“January is also a great time to become more aware of the different career paths that sectors can offer. Through Generation Logistics, we are raising awareness of the many different opportunities that are available in the logistics profession. Becoming aware of the different paths and aligning those with your preferences can ensure that you apply for roles that can offer you the perks and benefits you’re looking for.”
For those who are interested in finding out more about a career in logistics, take Generation Logistics’ Find Your Future quiz to discover the opportunities available: www.generationlogistics.org/find-your-future/
