The holidays may seem like a slow time to find clients, but they can actually be a great opportunity for Filipino freelancer job hunting.
While some companies wind down at year-end, many remote-friendly businesses continue hiring to prepare for Q1. This creates promising openings for VAs, creatives, customer support roles, and other online jobs.
It is normal to worry about fewer listings, tougher competition, or companies cutting budgets. However, plenty of clients still look for talent before the January rush.
By understanding holiday hiring trends and following practical job search tips in the Philippines, you can enjoy the season while quietly laying the groundwork for better work-from-home gigs in the new year.
Here are some tips for finding long-term and freelance opportunities at this time.
Why the Holidays Are a Great Time to Look for Freelance Work
Even though the season feels slow, it’s still a busy period for many businesses.
Companies still have projects to wrap up, some workers take time off, and there’s often a surge in demand for short-term remote positions before the new year.
This makes the holidays a smart moment for Filipino freelancers to find work and get ahead for Q1.
Companies Still Have Year-End Projects to Finish
Many businesses need extra help wrapping up content creation, administrative tasks, customer support, and eCommerce operations before the year ends.
This creates opportunities for online workers to step in and deliver value when companies need it most.
The Competition Is Lower
Some workers pause their tasks to travel or rest during non-working holidays.
This means fewer people applying for the same jobs, giving you a better chance to stand out.
Remote Roles Spike Before Christmas and New Year
Short-term contracts often rise as companies handle seasonal projects, while some businesses secure long-term online workers to start strong in Q1.
Taking on work now can put you first in line for bigger opportunities in the new year.
What Freelancers Should Prepare Before Applying
Before sending out applications during the holiday season, it helps to get organized and make sure your profiles, portfolio, and work setup are ready.
Preparing in advance saves time, helps you stand out, and positions you for fast-moving Filipino freelancer job hunting opportunities.
Update Your Online Profiles (Portfolio, Resume, Platforms)
Make sure your LinkedIn and other online profiles reflect your current achievements and showcase your skills clearly.
Highlight recent wins and relevant experience to attract potential clients.
Refresh Your Portfolio With Recent Work
Add your latest projects, including any holiday-themed or Q4 work if applicable.
A strong, updated portfolio helps you stand out and demonstrate your capabilities.
Prepare Template Cover Letters and Work Samples
Having ready-to-use cover letters and sample work saves time during fast-paced hiring weeks.
You can quickly tailor them for each application without starting from scratch.
Clean Up Your Work Setup
Make sure your internet connection is reliable or has a backup, your tools and software are up to date, and your workspace looks professional.
Being prepared helps you handle tasks efficiently and make a good impression on clients.
Smart Strategies for Holiday Job-Hunting
The holiday season requires a slightly different approach to Filipino freelancer job hunting.
By timing your applications, targeting roles in demand, and staying proactive, you can increase your chances of landing work even when many freelancers are taking time off.
These strategies help you stay visible, relevant, and prepared for opportunities in Q4 and early Q1.
Apply During Low-Activity Times (Early Morning, Weekends)
Submitting applications when fewer people are active can give your profile better visibility and increase your chances of being noticed.
Focus on Roles That Increase During Q4
Certain online roles see higher demand at the end of the year. These include:
- Virtual Assistant Jobs
- Data Entry
- Customer support
- eCommerce product listing
- Graphic design
- Content writing
- Social media management
- Bookkeeping and reconciliation
Reach Out Directly to Clients You’ve Worked With Before
Many clients need extra help during the holidays. Reconnecting with previous clients can lead to short-term projects or repeat work.
Improve One Skill That’s in High Demand for January
Use downtime to enhance a skill that clients will value in the new year. Examples include:
- Social media content batching
- Data cleanup
- Customer support systems
- Canva design
- Basic bookkeeping
Red Flags: Holiday Season Freelancing Scams to Watch Out For
The holiday season can bring extra opportunities, but it can also attract scammers looking to take advantage of freelancers.
Being aware of common red flags helps you protect your time, money, and personal information. Watch out for these warning signs:
Fake Recruiters Requesting “Registration Fees”
Legitimate clients or platforms never ask for upfront payments. If someone requests a fee to “process your application” or “unlock projects,” it is likely a scam.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Job Ads
Be cautious of ads promising unrealistic earnings, such as “Earn 10K PHP per day with no experience required” or “Work 1 hour a day and get full-time pay.”
If it sounds too easy, it probably is.
No Contract, No Clear Scope of Work
Never start work without a written agreement or clear deliverables. Scammers may offer payment after tasks are completed, but then disappear or refuse to pay.
Phishing & Fake Payment Confirmations
Watch out for fake websites, emails, or messages claiming you’ve been paid.
Always verify payment through trusted platforms and never share your banking or personal details with unknown contacts.
How to Stand Out in a Competitive Freelance Market
Even during the holidays, clients move fast once they decide to hire.
These simple steps can help you leave a strong impression and secure remote jobs in the Philippines before and after the holidays.
Respond Quickly and Professionally
Replying promptly shows reliability and interest. Keep your messages clear, polite, and focused on how you can help the client.
Show Results, Not Just Tasks
Instead of listing what you do, highlight outcomes. Share metrics, improvements, or specific wins that show the value you delivered.
Send Short Skill Demos or 10-Minute Samples
Short demos or samples make it easy for clients to assess your skills without a big time commitment.
This can speed up hiring decisions.
Be Clear About Your Availability Over the Holidays
Let clients know your working hours and any holiday breaks upfront. Clear expectations build trust and help avoid misunderstandings.
Balancing Holiday Life + Job-Hunting
The holidays should still feel like the holidays.
By planning around the Philippine holiday schedule and setting realistic goals, you can continue your end-of-year job search without sacrificing rest, family time, or celebrations.
The key is consistency.
Set a Daily Application Goal (3 to 5 Per Day)
Aim for a small, manageable number of applications each day. This makes it easier to keep your momentum going.
Use Dead Hours for Quick Applications
Travel time, waiting time, or quiet moments during the day are perfect for sending quick applications or follow-ups.
Avoid Burnout and Schedule Rest Days
Plan rest days into your schedule. Taking breaks helps you stay focused and motivated during Filipino freelancer job hunting.
Track Applications for Easy Follow-Ups
Keep a simple list of where you applied, dates sent, and responses. This makes follow-ups easier and more professional.
Remote Staff: Where to Find Long-Term, Part-Time, and Project-Based Remote Work
Freelance work can sometimes feel unstable, with erratic projects and unpredictable income.
During the work from home holidays, it can be especially helpful to know where to find reliable opportunities.
Out of the many platforms available for freelancers, where should you look for safe and consistent remote work in the Philippines?
Remote Staff connects Filipino freelancers and remote professionals with international companies offering long-term, stable remote roles, as well as part-time and project-based work.
This makes it a great option for those looking for flexible arrangements, clear expectations, and reliable work-from-home opportunities.
FAQs
Here are answers to common concerns that can help with your Filipino freelancer job hunting:
Is December a good month to look for freelance work?
Yes. While some companies slow down, many still hire for short-term or urgent projects.
Applying in December can also position you first in line for Q1 opportunities.
Do clients hire even during Christmas week?
Yes, some clients continue hiring Filipino talent, especially for online roles that need immediate support or seasonal tasks.
Short-term projects and part-time work are more common during this time.
How do I avoid scams when applying online?
Be cautious of anyone asking for upfront fees, offering unrealistically high pay, or refusing a contract.
Follow general WFH dos and don’ts by sticking to trusted platforms and verifying payments before sharing personal or banking details.
How many jobs should I apply for per day?
A realistic goal is 3–5 applications per day.
This helps you pace yourself and allows time to tailor your applications.
How do I get long-term clients, not just one-off gigs?
Focus on delivering results, communicating clearly, and building relationships with clients.
Follow up professionally, showcase your skills with demos or samples, and be reliable.
These practices increase the chances of securing ongoing work.
Start the New Year Strong by Applying Early
The holiday season isn’t a slowdown—it’s a head start for your online job hunting.
By using this time strategically, you can enjoy the celebrations while laying the groundwork for bigger freelance opportunities in the new year.
With the right preparation, your next big gig could start even before the year ends.
Take advantage of this period to refine your portfolio, practice key skills, and submit applications thoughtfully. Staying proactive now positions you ahead of the crowd when Q1 hiring ramps up.
Register with Remote Staff today and begin your Filipino freelancer job hunting with confidence.
