Here’s another interesting tidbit about job searching during the holiday season: It can also mean less competition for available positions, because of the number of job-seekers who do take a break from their searches. If you’re not sure whether you should put your employment hunt on pause until the new year, the following are our suggestions for important things you can be doing.
1. Continue to Apply
Due to many applicants taking a break during the holiday season, the applicant pool tends to be smaller which means there is less competition. We understand that for some, it may be easier to focus on the season than the job hunt – and that’s fine, of course, but if you are a multi-tasker you will find less competition for jobs during the holidays. What’s more, keeping your job search organized during this time will help you manage multiple priorities.
2. “Tune” Your Resume
Use this time to make sure you’re ready for those job interview opportunities – work on your interviewing skills, ensure you’re prepared to speak compellingly about your accomplishments, fine-tune your resume and, above all, stay focused.
3. Attend Networking Events/Holiday Parties (or Reconnect with Others by Sending Holiday Cards)
What better time of year for networking than during the holidays? There are a myriad of business and social holiday functions during November and December when you can connect with people who can assist in your job search. Don’t be shy – most people are happy to “pay it forward” by helping you out, especially during the season of perpetual giving. Additionally, consider getting business cards made up with your contact information and the URL of your LinkedIn page, if you have one, and bring a supply with you to give to those folks you meet at holiday bashes and networking events.
4. Take Note That a Temporary Job Could Become Permanent
If you are employed for a seasonal, temporary holiday position, there is a good possibility that you could get to keep it; companies typically keep some of the temps they hire for this time of year, and you could transition to full-time if you leave a good impression on your immediate supervisor.
Don’t miss out on good job opportunities because you have decided to cease your job search. Even if you cut back your searching and find yourself spending less time looking for work, you will still be in a position to be hired…and it’s always better to be prepared sooner rather than later.
