 Job Search Tips for the Holidays
There is a myth out there that says that companies don’t hire during the holidays. But it’s just that…a myth. Just ask the jobseeker who was invited in for a second interview two days before Christmas. Putting your job search on hold between Thanksgiving and New Year’s isn’t just a bad idea — it’s a self-fulfilling prophecy. Like hockey great Wayne Gretzky said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” If you’re not looking for a job during the holidays, you’re not going to find one. Employers hire all 12 months of the year. In fact, many new positions are funded to start with a new budget year — which often coincides with a new calendar year. Other hiring managers have hiring budgets that must be spent before the end of the year — “use it or lose it.” Both of these scenarios offer opportunities for jobseekers in December. The holidays also offer some organic opportunities to network at company parties, social gatherings, end-of-the-year professional association events, and even Christmas cards and letters. Working on your job search during the holidays may also mean less competition from other candidates who put their job search on hold. Many people wait until January — making it a New Year’s Resolution — to look for a new job. If you wait until January 2nd to start your job search, you’ll have more competition. Even if you aren’t offered a job in December, you can lay a lot of the groundwork by making connections before the end of the year, making it more likely that you’ll be hired quickly in the New Year. 10 Ideas for Job Searching During the Holidays Here are some specific strategies you can use in your holiday job search.
While applying for jobs, don’t be surprised if you do not hear anything back right away. Many people use their accumulated vacation time before the end of the year, so you may find yourself waiting a bit longer than usual for a response to your résumé or job interview. Be patient, but persistent. If it’s your goal to find a new job in the New Year, don’t put off your job search just because it’s the holiday season. A job search that starts in December gives you the opportunity to get hired before the end of the year — or to have momentum and a head start on other candidates once the calendar turns over on January 1.  There are many reasons that employees are let go that may OR may not have a whole lot to do with the employee individually. Budgets, restructuring, mergers and acquisitions are just a few.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE THE INTERVIEW:
Be honest - project with confidence while you speak and choose your words, tone and message carefully. Maintain a positive upbeat attitude and keep your answer fairly short. SO, WHAT DO YOU SAY? Here are some sample responses to hiring managers, recruiters and employers if they ask… “I really enjoyed working at XYZ company; however, after some time I noticed that the compatibility was diminishing, and it was time to move on. I learned a lot, and contributed a lot at the company - it was just clear to both of us, that I wasn’t a good fit. I was excited to learn that your company values new ideas and employee contributions at all levels.” “I had a great experience with XYZ company, even as the company struggled through numerous layoffs. Ultimately, my position was eliminated and I had to make a career shift. I am excited to learn more about the responsibilities within the _____ position here.” “As the company reorganization began to expand, I could see the handwriting on the wall and knew that my position would soon be eliminated, and so we mutually agreed on my departure. I received a severance package and took a few days off to spend with family and travel. I am excited to jump back into a challenging position. “As you can probably tell by now, I am a go-getter. I worked at company XYZ for a few years and I really enjoyed the people; however, it was clear that my career would not progress past my current role. After realizing that there were no lateral opportunities for cross-growth, I realized that I needed to pursue challenging and expansive positions better suited to my _____ background. This position is really appealing to me because of the management opportunity and the company culture.” Take your time as you create your own unique, authentic response. Draft your response on paper and practice saying it out loud until it becomes a natural response for you. Taking the time to do this will help you to grow the capabilities and skill you need to interview from a place of confidence. Remember, this is an opportunity for a new chapter in your career.  Looking for work can be a full time job itself! When you are applying for many jobs at various companies, it can be difficult to keep track of your applications and your progress with each application. Knowing how to stay on top of your job search by getting organized can improve your chances of remaining pro-active; following up on the jobs you want and even help alleviate some of the stress associated with job searching. Take some time now to organize your job search. Bring structure, logic and control to your job search by creating a job search log. 1. Start a spreadsheet dedicated to your job search. Record each job that you apply for, the company name and headquarters, along with the address of the company location where you actually applied to work (if it is a different location). List relevant contact names and phone numbers. 2. Make columns that include: job title, company name and address, contact information, date of application, date job closes, and names and titles of anyone you have spoken to. List interview dates and notes referencing your discussion. Follow up after interviews with a thank you letter. 3. Review/update your log at least every other day. Add new jobs as you apply for them and continue to follow up on leads. 4. Create a daily/weekly schedule of activities to complete as you conduct your job search. 5. Continually set goals, reevaluate, and adjust your job search strategy as needed!   CONGRATULATIONS to all the New Graduates! THE NEXT STEP... A successful job search starts with a POWERFUL and MODERN resume and career documents. One of the best gifts that you can give a NEW GRADUATE is a professionally crafted resume, job search techniques, and interview skills. Most new graduates are challenged with crafting a resume that communicates their value proposition, education, and new skills. Professionally crafted resumes empower new graduates, can increase their earning potential, and provide peace of mind and confidence during their job search and interviews. We craft EMPOWERING and MODERN resumes that relay practical, relevant, and experiential knowledge and skills - clearly and effectively. Our resumes get interviews and get results! Check out our New Graduate Packages! From May through August we offer specialized packages, just for New Graduates, that include Resumes, Career Marketing Documents, Interview Preparation & Coaching, LinkedIn Profile Development, and much more! You can purchase a New Graduate Package or a Gift Certificate in several amounts to include: $50, $100, $200, $300, $400, $500, and $1000. A great first impression can transform the career trajectory of a New Graduate or anyone! Give a friend, family member, or loved one the gift of transformation. Gift the Gift Today! "Hi Kara- I just wanted to let you know that with this resume and cover letter, I was contacted for 2 interviews. I was given a job offer yesterday to work in a specialized clinic and start on Monday morning. I've received numerous compliments on my resume. Thank you so much!! - New Nursing Graduate |
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