Preparing for a Fresh Start: How to Position Yourself for January Opportunities
December might feel like a time to wind down, but in legal recruitment it’s one of the smartest moments to get ahead. January is consistently one of the busiest hiring periods of the year, and the candidates who secure the strongest roles are the ones who prepare now – quietly, steadily and with purpose.
Start with your CV. Most Solicitors know it needs updating but leave it until an application is urgent. Use December to refresh it properly: recent cases, strengthened skills, measurable results, and any additional responsibilities you’ve taken on. A well-maintained CV signals professionalism and confidence.
Your LinkedIn profile deserves the same care. Firms and recruiters search actively in the new year, and a clear, current profile helps you stand out before the competition wakes up. A professional photo, a concise headline, and a short summary of your expertise go a long way.
Next, take stock of what you actually want. Progression, culture, flexibility, workload, location – December gives you space to reflect without the usual noise of day-to-day practice. A clear brief helps ensure you make decisions based on long-term career health, not short-term frustration.
It’s also worth having early, discreet conversations with a recruiter you trust. Firms discuss headcount and budgets before Christmas and roles often start to surface quietly. Being on the radar early means you’re first in line.
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of rest. It’s great to see how many law firms are now closing over the Christmas period, giving their staff time to switch off and re-charge. A clear head in January makes you sharper, more decisive and better positioned to make a move that genuinely serves your future.
Preparation now puts you in front of the pack when the market accelerates. January rewards those who get ready early.
Claire Cox is a qualified, non-practising Solicitor, with a comprehensive understanding of the legal profession and a proven track record of delivering results with almost 25 years legal recruitment experience.
Visit Bailey Hunter or contact Claire Cox for a confidential chat:
Tel: 0113 3185293 Mob: 07786 224036