The Holiday Job Search - Give Up Or Step It Up?

Job searching during the Holidays can seem daunting, but a recent New York Times article suggests that there are still plenty of opportunities out there for the motivated seeker.

So why should you keep pushing your resume while hiring managers are celebrating at company holiday parties? The article states:

"This is actually one of the best times of the year to look for a job, said Ford R. Myers, a career coach, author and president of Career Potential in the Philadelphia area. Partly, that is because most people do take a holiday break, some starting with a laissez-faire attitude as early as Thanksgiving. This leaves a wider opening for those who persevere, Mr. Myers said.

At this time of year, the hiring managers who are in the office tend to be more accessible, more relaxed and less busy than usual, Mr. Myers said. And the holidays can unleash a spirit of generosity toward job hunters that is lacking at other times, he added."

As you continue your search, I would suggest that you identify multiple points of contact with a potential employer, including their executive assistant, desk phone, cell phone, email, Facebook, Twitter, and their mailing address for a handwritten note. Technology has provided us with a variety of ways to stay on someone's radar, and it is up to you to take advantage of your options. But more importantly, make sure you provide substance in your outreach.

Send a Christmas card, attach a relevant article to your email or mention that you heard about their recent achievement through a mutual contact. Your outreach must ADD VALUE and provide incentive for them to respond.

I usually say that the best time to call someone is on a Friday. And with this being the week before Christmas, guess what? Most every day between now and January will feel like a Friday. So instead of giving up, step up your efforts over the next few weeks!

Assess your options, make a phone call, send a Christmas card, and set up a meeting for January. You just might catch someone in the holiday spirit of giving!