Happy holidays, job seekers! 🎅

We know that this season can be incredibly bittersweet, especially when you're out of work, making something as simple as gift-giving feel overwhelming. But as the year comes to a close, there's also a sense of anticipation- with a new year comes the opportunity to wipe the slate clean and embrace all the possibilities that lie ahead.

And the best part? It looks like Santa's already getting a head start on fulfilling our wishes: the job market seems to finally be picking up! Read on for more on that topic and our thoughts on job searching during the holidays.

Baking Spirits Bright

The holidays are in full swing and that means treats, treats and more treats. It can be hard to avoid the onslaught of sugar, but we’re here to remind you that feeling guilt over what you just ate never helped anyone in the long run. Our POV: enjoy a sweet treat here and there and make sure you’re filling up on whole, unprocessed foods in between!

Whether you’re baking with the fam, hosting a get together, or indulging in a solo night of coziness, these easy, healthy-ish recipes will have you feeling festive in no time with half the guilt. Let the holiday magic begin!

Brussel Sprout with Bacon - Because bacon makes everything better, right?!

Mulled White Wine - We love a festive drink loaded with immune support like ginger and lemon!

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies - Santa will approve, trust us.

Pecan Pie Pars - Heavenly, gooey, and vegan, too.

Chocolate Matzah - The simplest yet most addictive Hanukkah treat. You’ll never look at matzah the same way again.

Banana Oat Pancakes - Breakfast goals. Healthy, gluten-free, vegan, and scrumptious!

Butternut squash soup - Perfect for those chilly days when you need a hug in a mug.

Job Market Trends: Q4 and Beyond

The current job market shows mixed trends, with both challenges and opportunities for job seekers. Here’s a quick overview of what we’re seeing:

1. Q4 Shows A Stable Yet Competitive Job Market: Although the market is not experiencing explosive growth, there is increasing demand for workers, especially in industries that have recovered post-pandemic.​ However, this has also led to more people entering the labor force, especially among prime-age workers (ages 25-54), which can make it more competitive​.

2. AI and Automation: There's an increasing reliance on AI and automation in various industries. While this is enhancing productivity, it also means job seekers should stay adaptable and consider upskilling in areas like AI tools, which are becoming integral to many roles​.

3. Lower Quit Rates: Unlike the "Great Resignation," job quitting continues to slow. However, workers are still seeking better opportunities, especially those that offer flexibility, better pay, and career growth. Your best bet as a job seeker is to follow companies you know offer these things and try to find a warm lead!

TL;DR: The demand for workers is slowly starting to grow in fields typically offering flexibility, competitive salaries, and opportunities for growth. We’re super hopeful for job seekers in 2025, especially in sales, tech and marketing, as those industries have been slow to rebound.

Insight Hub: You Asked, We Answered

“Should I pause my job search during the holiday season?”

It’s a very valid question: With companies closing for the holidays and many people on vacation, it might seem like a less-than-ideal time to be actively pursuing opportunities. But is it really?

The answer depends on your situation, but here's why you might want to keep moving forward:

• Fewer Competitors: Many job seekers adopt a similar mentality during the holidays, and with the hustle and bustle of the season, fewer applicants often means less competition.

• Seasonal Work: Depending on the industry, hiring may actually pick up during this time of year, particularly in sectors that need extra help for the holiday season.

• Networking Opportunities: The holidays provide a unique chance to connect with people in a more informal setting. Holiday parties, end-of-year events, and seasonal gatherings can be great ways to expand your professional network and hear about job openings. Who knows? Maybe Aunt Cathy’s friend’s husband will have an opportunity for you 👀

• Getting Ahead: While others are slowing down, you can use this time to regroup and fine-tune your resume, update your LinkedIn profile, or acquire new skills. Getting ahead now can set you up for a strong start when hiring picks up again in January.

Clearly, there are several reasons to keep pushing through the holidays. However, if you’re feeling burnt out or simply want to enjoy this time without the stress of job hunting, taking a break can be much-needed! Prioritize listening to what your mind and body need right now.

A Survival Guide for the Festive Season

‘Tis the season to be merry and bright, but for many, it’s also a little… chaotic and stressful. If you lean toward the latter, we’ve got you covered with some lighthearted yet effective survival tactics we’ve both employed a time or two:

🎁 The Gift of Saying No: It’s okay to decline the invitation to bake 10 dozen cookies or participate in yet another Secret Santa. Sometimes, your own sanity has to come first. Saying “no” doesn’t make you a Scrooge—it makes you someone who is prioritizing their own well-being so they can show up well when it truly matters. And that is someone to respect!

☮️ Find Pockets of Peace: With a jam-packed calendar, finding time for zen can seem impossible. Even if it’s just 5 minutes in the car on your way to a family gathering, taking a moment for some deep belly breaths can do wonders. The simplest of mindful breathing techniques can help you feel more calm and appreciate what you do have time for—whether it’s a cozy cup of cocoa or watching a cheesy Hallmark movie you’ve seen a million times.

🏃🏽‍♀️Health is Wealth: The holidays bring about food, food, and more food. While the second heaping of pie is tempting, try to balance indulgence with healthy options so you can feel your best. To keep your energy up, make time for healthy habits like getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods (alongside the Christmas cookies, of course), and balancing couch time with staying active.

👥 Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Whether it’s cooking, gift wrapping, or keeping the kids entertained, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Delegating tasks is a sign of strength.

The holidays are meant to be a time of celebration and connection, not stress and overwhelm. But if this year has the added layer of job searching attached to it, don’t force the fun. Give yourself a break and enjoy what you can this season (however that looks for you).

Only a few more weeks before the clock ticks over to 2025 (cue the collective gasp)!

From the Sage team to you, we wish you a month full of joy, laughter, and comfort. Whether you're spending the time with family and friends or enjoying some much-needed time for yourself, we hope you get the chance to recharge and make some memories. Remember: no season lasts.

As we look toward the New Year, we're excited for all the opportunities that lie ahead. Here's to fresh beginnings, new adventures, and a year full of growth, expansion, and most of all: a new job.

2025, let’s do this!