Are you stilling looking for a new job, or have you just been laid off and are starting your job search during the holiday season? Many people I talk to think they need to put their search on hold during the holidays and start up in mid-January.
I want to encourage you to keep your search going through the next month. Many companies have positions that need to be filled by the end of 2015, or they will lose the headcount for those positions. Hiring Managers are aware of this and will continue the recruiting process through the holidays, so you need to also continue your search.
I know you might be burnt out and frustrated at this point in the year, but just taking small steps each day can get you closer to that dream job you have been wanting.
The tips below will help you stay on track with your search and also allow you time enjoy the holidays with your friends and family.
Here are 5 easy steps to job search through the holidays:
1. Take advantage of the time you are spending at holiday gatherings to network.
Your job search can still be a topic of conversation during the holidays. Let the people you are mingling with know that you are looking for your next opportunity. You never know who might be at your child's school event or your neighborhood party.
2. Be flexible with your schedule.
If you are contacted for an interview, be flexible with your schedule to speak or meet with the company. Since it most likely is a busy time for them, they may require you to come in multiple days to or take a call on a weekend.
3. Update your LinkedIn profile to show that you are looking for a new job.
Many Recruiters are starting to work on the positions they need to fill during the first quarter of 2016. During the month of December they are reviewing LinkedIn profiles and gathering a list of people to contact right after the first of the year. You want to be at the top of list when they start reaching out to candidates, so don't put your job search on hold and wait until January to update your LinkedIn profile.
4. Keep up your informational interviews and conversations.
The holiday season is a great time to catch up about the year and talk about what you interested in doing next year. Continue to reach out to the people in your network for a lunch or coffee dates.
5. Set up alerts to show you when new jobs are open.
Save time in front of the computer, by setting up alerts on job boards like . Many companies have their own alert email system, so if you are targeting any specific companies make sure to include them in your alert list.
How are you going to job search during the Holidays? Let us know in the comments below!
About the Author
Becky is a job search success coach who gives clients the tools and techniques they need to get to "yes, you're hired!" She rescues clients from job search frustration and helps them gain lucrative and satisfying employment.