It’s getting colder. The nights are getting brighter. Ah, the holidays — a time to rejoice, be merry, and enjoy a well-earned break until the new year. And, what a time to hunt for a job!
Wait. Job-hunting? During the holidays? Are you serious? Does it make sense to search for a job during the holidays? Well, yes, it does make perfect sense. And we’ll give you a number of reasons why.
1. Companies still hire in December .
While it’s true that some searches slow down or get put on hold, plenty of hiring still happens around the holidays. In fact, some hiring managers are scrambling to fill positions before the new year or want someone to start soon after January 1. There are plenty of searches still going on, with candidates being interviewed and offers being made.
2. There is less competition for available jobs.
Even though you might really need a new job it can be hard to manage a job search when there are so many other things happening during the holidays.
For some people, it’s easier to focus on the season than the job hunt. That’s fine, of course, but if you are a juggler who can multi-task you’ll find less competition for jobs.
Keep your job search going could give you a chance for an interview that you may not have got during another time of year because the candidate pool was more competitive. Keeping your job search organized will help you manage multiple priorities.
3. There are more networking opportunities during the holidays.
You couldn’t pick a better time of year for networking. There are many social and business holiday functions during November and December when you can connect with people who can help your job search. Not sure how to do it? Here are tips for holiday season networking when you’re job searching.
Don’t be shy. Most people are thrilled to have the opportunity to pay it forward by helping you out – especially during the season of giving. Consider getting a business card made with your contact information and the URL of your LinkedIn page, if you have one. Bring a supply with you to give to the people you meet at networking events and holiday parties. Have an elevator pitch ready so you can quickly share information on your background.
4. Salary and Benefits in Place for the New Year.
It’s always good to start January with your life in order, if you can. Having your compensation set for the year not only helps pay the bills. It also helps with budgeting and tax planning.
5. A temporary job could become permanent.
If you are hired for a temporary holiday season job, you could get to keep it. Companies typically keep some of the temps they hire for the holidays, and you could be one of them if you make a good impression on your employer. Here’s information on temp to perm jobs.
6. You’ll have extra money for the holidays.
If you get hired sooner than you expect, you will have extra money to spend for the holidays. You will also have the peace of mind of knowing that you have a job to go to. That will save some stress of worrying about having to start your job search over on January 1.
7. You now have a good excuse to get a new wardrobe.
Shopping for yourself is always fun. It’s even better when you can take advantage of holiday sales and discounts. If you have a new job lined up, you can shop for a brand new wear to work wardrobe to start your position in style. If you’re job searching, it’s a good time to pick up a new interview outfit or two on sale.