“Nobody’s hiring this time of year.” Whoever said that holiday time is NOT the time to look for a new job is wrong. Frankly, it’s one of the most productive times to search for that new position only because your competition is taking it easy, and of the mindset that it’s not worth it now!
What you don’t realize is that even though some businesses slow down for a few days, weeks or even the entire month of December, other companies are busier than ever. Think of retail, service-oriented, food service and financial organizations! Do people stop banking or buying at the end of the year? No; if anything they do more. Savvy investors are reviewing their past year’s activity and are planning for the New Year, working with their investors or accountants. Most people are purchasing presents, upgrading their living accommodations and upping their spending habits. As a result, industries such as banking, retail and financial services are busier than ever and are not reducing their hiring needs. It’s a new year, which means people make plans and resolutions; it’s the PERFECT time for you to capitalize on this spirit of change and growth!
Before you start though, you need to dust off that old resume if it hasn’t been updated in a while or strongly consider a new one if the current resume hasn’t been working over the past few months. It may also be time to adjust your search strategy and approach; ask yourself how active and committed you’ve been to finding a new job? Have you given up or have you settled for something you don’t really want? If this past year hasn’t been a banner year, then isn’t this a great time to turn over a new leaf?
By launching your search efforts now, you also benefit from the holiday spirit that seems to abound! One great way to get your foot in the door is to personally visit companies, ask to speak with someone and if you can’t, at the very least, you are dropping of your resume and leaving a GREAT personal impression; you have a much better chance of being remembered even if you don’t get the chance to talk to a hiring authority. And, if the company HAS stopped hiring at this time of year, you will have the jump on the traditional January 2nd search frenzy that starts up since they already have your resume. Instead of contacting them the first time, you can be making your follow-up calls!
This is also a great time to network – at parties or family gatherings, people generally make small talk about holiday plans or life in general. Take this opportunity to share your job search intentions. It somehow seems less awkward when you are asked about your own life rather than bringing it up first. Since many people are still uncomfortable networking, the holiday relaxation and ongoing good spirit make it a bit easier to get the word out. Networking is still the leading success tactic in finding a new job and meeting the right person.
Look upon this time of year as an occasion to renew your search plans rather than tell yourself that nobody is hiring. Don’t take the holidays off - be savvy, be diligent and enjoy the competitive edge this time of the year allows. Good luck and Happy Hunting!
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