Too often I hear people say that they are putting off their job hunt until AFTER the holidays because “nobody is hiring now”. Often job hunters think that from Thanksgiving until January 1st is a bad time to be looking for a job because people have the holidays on their mind, not business. So they postpone their search.

Unfortunately, that is a big mistake and it can lead to missed opportunities. Openings still occur during the holidays for a variety of reasons – - an employee gets promoted or transferred, has been fired or quits. In many organizations, budgets have been approved and money is available for hiring new employees starting the first of the year.
Since recruiting, screening, interviewing and selecting candidates takes time, it is not unreasonable that the process for a January hire would begin in November or December. Also, instead of hiring authorities being hard to reach , they are in town during this period because they will be attending holiday functions and networking.

This is also a great time for you to network. Networking is a great way to provide you with a lot of contacts. Every person you meet can be a resource of additional names of people who can help you in your search for that next job. Here are several ideas to get the most from holiday events:

1. Try to attend as many association-sponsored holiday events as possible. These could include your local Chamber of Commerce or other business networking breakfasts or luncheons.
2. Attend your own trade or professional association’s holiday event.
3. Resolve to meet at least ten new people at each event.
4. Organize a networking event of your own or with several other jobs seekers in your area, inviting business people you would like to meet. The event doesn’t have to be elaborate but should be tasteful.
5. Create a simple business card with not only your contact information but also professional designations or highlights (i.e. Engineering Manager, Six Sigma Black Belt, Continuous Improvement Champion) and take them everywhere.
6. Volunteer to help others in your community who are less fortunate this holiday season whether it is helping collect toys for your local toy bank, ringing bells for the Salvation Army, or putting together food baskets for the needy. Who knows who you might meet!

Remember there is no way to predict when an employer has the need to hire so don’t postpone your job search this holiday season.

Everyone at PRI wishes you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving.