Contrary to popular belief, the holiday months of November and December are actually an excellent time to develop and leverage new contacts for a job search.
Ford R. Myers, career coach, speaker and author of “Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring,” (John Wiley & Sons) says, “Many job seekers don’t realize how important it is to perform a search during these months. There is little to no competition. Companies are completing their budget planning for the next fiscal year, so it’s a great time to get in front of hiring managers. And, many executives have to fill openings early in the year or they may lose the budget for that position.”
Myers offers the following tips to help job seekers make the most of this all-important time for career transition.
1. NETWORK
There are many social and community networking events in November and December, including charity fundraisers and holiday events. Most professional associations have a party for their December meetings, with a different spirit than the more formal presentations offered throughout the rest of the year.
Myers cautions, “Do not bring a resume to these events. Rather, create a simple, tasteful business card with your name, phone number and e-mail address to give to people. A business card will leave a better impression than a resume at these events, which are more social in nature at this time of year.”
2. VOLUNTEER
There are many volunteer opportunities around the holidays. This is a good way to help other people, to feel good when you need a boost, to have a renewed sense of purpose during your search, and to meet other professionals.
3. CALL PEOPLE
Myers notes, “I have a colleague who was starting a business who used the day after Thanksgiving to make both follow-up calls and cold calls. She found that whoever was at work that day was not only available for a conversation, but was grateful to speak to someone.” Even if many people are away for the holidays, those who are at work may have more time to speak with you.
4. SEND HOLIDAY CARDS
This is the time to send cards to everyone on your list, including search firms, human retarget executives and hiring managers with whom you have spoken or met over the past year. Whether you choose to send paper cards or electronic cards, don’t let these people forget you.
“When choosing a holiday card, pick a seasonal, nondenominational theme that works well with people of all religions. If you’re using paper cards, put a return address on the card so the person can reach you. Don’t write about your job search in the card. And, mail the cards early in December so yours will be received in time for people to invite you to their holiday get-togethers,” adds Myers.
“There really couldn’t be a better time than November or December for a job search. Those in the position to hire are ‘out of their normal environment’ and more willing to talk about work in a more relaxed setting,” said Myers.
For more information and other useful tips for achieving career success, visit http://www.getthejobbook.com .
Reprinted by permission of Ford R. Myers, a nationally-known Career Coach and author of “Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring.” Download your free bonuses now at http://www.careerbookbonuses.com.