By Courtney Bousquet, Guest Contributor
It is critical to continue job searching during the holiday season. Many people hibernate during the holidays, and do so for good reasons: parties, activities and celebrations. With so many job seekers in hibernation, however, it is important that you take advantage of the lull of applicants. Yes, holiday stress can be much more than normal, but proactive job seekers make the best out of the season and have a better chance of earning a paycheck during the first quarter. Make the best out of this holiday season and consider these Five Festive Reasons to Hunt through the Holidays from Meghan Casserly of Forbes.
- Send Holiday Cards to Employers. This may seem like an unconventional approach, but it is an easy way to stay on the radar of hiring managers. Sending a card shows continued interest when the emails to inquire about positions and thank you cards have been sent, and keeps the relationship going into the New Year. When considering what type of card to send, go for a simple holiday or New Year card to avoid offending those who do not celebrate the mainstream holiday.
- “Networking Around the Christmas Tree.” Consider holiday events as another networking opportunity. Come armed with business cards and present your best self, as you never know who you will run into. Have a company in mind that you want to work for, if a friend or family member works there, ask them if you can be their plus one. This will allow you to become familiar with the company culture as well as key people in a festive setting. Leave your resume at home and do not ask for a job: use the opportunity to build your network and reconnect in the New Year.
- “Cheers.” Connect with those who have successfully landed jobs recently and use the holidays as an excuse to take them out to celebrate. Talking to those who have been in your same shoes can land you some great points on where to look and how to set yourself apart. Ask them questions regarding the organization of their resume, what was their interview like, or how they found out about the position they are in now?
- “Set up informal meetings with key players.” The holidays usually leave schedules light with vacations of coworkers and slow business–use this to your advantage. Contact professionals in your network or an acquaintance’s network to talk about their path and ask questions. Keep the tone light, but remain professional.
- “Ask for Employment Related Gifts.”: Yes, you may really want a new camera or the hottest tablet, but consider asking friends and family for gifts that can help you obtain employment: a new suit, gas money, business cards, briefcase, even an introduction to an executive, adviser or mentor. The gift does not always have to be tangible, but an introduction to someone who can offer guidance may lead to an opportunity in the New Year. Asking friends and family to be involved in the process makes everyone feel a part of the process and you can share your successes with them all!
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