January can trigger a ‘fresh start’ mindset, and many workers return from the holidays ready to resign.
But HR expert Jonathon Woolfrey warns against making a snap decision in the first weeks back, when the job market can feel more competitive.

Hiring activity often slows over the summer holiday period, while many candidates re-enter the market at the same time, which can mean fewer obvious options and more competition for each role.

Jonathon tells Mike Jeffreys, a better approach for most people is to stay employed while you search, giving you the security of steady income, the time to be selective, and stronger negotiating power around salary, flexibility and start dates.

Sometimes you just have to try and move sooner, but for most employees, a measured plan beats an impulsive resignation and usually leads to a better outcome.