The holidays may seem to be a poor time to look for work as things slow down, and this makes the usual job search challenge seem twice as difficult.  

However, that’s not actually true, and definitely not this year.

 

If you’ve heard people say things like, “The job market is dead,” “No one’s hiring until the New Year,” or “Everyone’s away on vacation,” you’re not alone.  These are the types of comments that we hear from job seekers during the last few weeks of every year.  

 

Consider this – hiring managers at companies who still have open positions are committed, even desperate, to get key positions filled before the New Year. This year, this is even more true, and more jobs are opening than ever before. So, stay in the game.

 

How do I know this? Every year I’ve helped countless people get hired between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve.  I encouraged them not to take their “foot off the gas” like many of their competitors. I have at least three contacts recruiting for companies right now who have told me that they are hoping to fill roles before December 31st.

 

In fact, many other job seekers feel like this is the time to take a break from job hunting, and this gives you, as a candidate, less competition and a significant advantage. I call it the Holiday Slow-Down Advantage.  So, YOU stand out!

 

Also, by networking, building relationships with new people, and submitting job applications during the holiday season before the beginning of the first quarter, you are getting on a company or recruiter’s radar as new budgets take effect.

 

Risk waiting, and you’ll end up in an overcrowded job market - comparable to the mad rush at the gym after people make their New Year’s resolutions.   In fact, a CareerBuilder study has shown OVER 75% of the workforce is either actively looking or open to looking for something better in January.

With that being true, getting revved up for the first month of the year makes even more sense.

 

So, it’s an important time to look at how you can take advantage of the “holiday advantage.” 

 

There are a few key things to consider in your networking and job search to make the most of the unique advantage you have this holiday season. These include: 

 

1. Personal connection: Reconnect with people in your network and ask how they’re doing, how they coped or thrived this year, and what their goals are for next year. Set up a virtual meeting, maybe toast with eggnog, connect, and have fun. 
2. Send an Ecard – a business card presented as a holiday card that includes a link to your LinkedIn profile. Personal investments in your relationships pay dividends when those people hear about opportunities for you.
3. Giving: As you reconnect with people in your network, ask them how you can support them in getting through the holiday season. 
4. Feed your relationships with recruiters by showing them gratitude for ANY conversations you’ve had with them, insights they’ve provided, and the hard work they do matching candidates with companies. This really shows you care and understand the role they play.
5. Finally, share with your network, the organization, or the charity you are supporting this holiday advantage season. Explain why the cause is dear to your heart and any leadership role you may hold with the organization.  For example, We are super committed to the environment and support the Environmental Defense Fund for their work globally and Riverkeeper for its protection of my beloved Hudson River!                                                       

So how about you?

 

How will you keep your energy and spirits high as you stay in contact with people this season? Your approach will boost your prospects and get you closer to being one – the absolute best candidate for a job you love. 

If you need any help with your resume, LinkedIn profile, or anything related to managing a leadership career you love, or your success, happiness and balance, contact us at [email protected].