By Torski Dobson-Arnold, PHR, MSHRM

Contrary to public opinion, the holidays are the best time to kick your job search into high gear.  While most job seekers will put their resumes and cover letters on the shelf in exchange for eggnog and cinnamon sticks around the fire, the active and optimistic job seeker presses onward while still enjoying the festivities that come with the holiday season.  Human resources professionals will agree that this could be the best time of the year to court the hiring manager.  He/she is not being bombarded with unsolicited emails and telephone calls and, with the festive spirit all around, many job seekers might find very jovial and welcoming responses to inquiries.  That is, unless they have already left the office for a lengthy holiday vacation.  Not to fret, job seeker!  Hires are still made during the holiday season.

In referencing About.com, “…Dave Harshbarger explains…that at many companies hiring and personnel activities continue at all times of year, because the needs that drive hiring – competitive pressures, growing markets, strategic initiatives – don’t take a break.”

If the hiring process seems next to impossible, there are many other activities that the job seeker can initiate to keep their job search moving full steam.  Some of my favorite and most effective are as follows:

• Make the most of the holiday spirit and attend as many holiday functions as possible.  Attend with the intent to make meaningful contacts and talk about your job search with attendees.  Folks can’t help you if they don’t know that you are actively looking and you never know who they may know.
• Invest in your career for the holidays by enrolling in a training/certification program that will boost your “career confidence” and your marketability in your field.  Need 6 more credits to complete you bachelor’s degree?  Need to update your skills in MS Excel or study for  that A+ certification?  Don’t procrastinate, get on it!
• If you have not been having success at securing interviews, have your resume professionally reviewed by a resume writer and take interview coaching lessons. (Hint: Your Career Confidence, LLC)
• Create an online portfolio, to include resume, cover letter, work samples, and reference your website in your resume.
• Brush the dust off of your old rolodex, Blackberry, or address book and send out holiday cards to old coworkers, colleagues, customers, vendors, recruiters, etc.
• Don’t overlook the seasonal or contractual opportunities.  These positions can be very beneficial and rewarding in the interim and, in many instances, could lead to your next full-time gig!
• Lastly, enjoy the holidays to get some well-deserved rest and relaxation.  Take this time to re-energize your efforts and pat yourself on the back for maintaining a renewed spirit in your job search.

Do you have a question about your career strategy, job search efforts, or unnoticed résumé document?

If you are experiencing slow results in your job search and/or are overwhelmed with the job search process, please contact Torski Dobson-Arnold, “The Career Confidence Coach” at torski@yourcareerconfidence.com.

Have a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!