This time of year inevitably brings out the job-search myths that keep countless job seekers from finding good opportunities.
I was at a job-search event in Atlanta last month, and several people expressed their concerns about starting a job search at this time of year.
Many said they might take time off from their job search to enjoy the holidays since nobody is hiring this time of year. At least that’s what most people think.
Should you take time off and enjoy the holidays if you are in a career transition? It depends on a number of factors.
• Can you afford to take time off during the holidays?
Even if you can afford to take time off from your job search during the holidays, this is the best time of year to network. Although you can network any time, this time of year is unique. There are more opportunities to network, and there is that intangible “goodwill factor.”
Can you relax and enjoy the season?
In my experience, most job seekers who take time off to relax during the holidays find they have a hard time following through with their goal to enjoy themselves. That January job search looms large in their future.
• Can you manage your expectations?
Job seekers often struggle with their expectations about job searching during the holidays and most of their expectations are built on myths.
You can search for a job during the holidays. This is not a dead zone, and there are interviews and opportunities to be had. If you are worried about the future, and you decide to go ahead and keep looking during the coming weeks, here are some suggestions:
• Make a job search plan and stick with it during the holidays. Have a blend of balance in spending time with family and devoting productive time to your search.
•Give yourself permission to enjoy the holidays. Unemployment does not mean you have lost your identity or family traditions. It just means you have lost your job. You will find another.
•Consider volunteering. It is surprising how many new contacts you will meet, and volunteering will add more experience and activity to your resume.
•Attend as many networking opportunities as possible and make it your goal to give and receive information.
•Attend meetings you are interested in, and see what happens. If you have a topic that interests you, attend a seminar, even if it is unrelated to your job search.
•Make this season special by doing things with your family to bring you closer to each other without additional expenses. Museum visits, weekly movie nights and walking through the neighborhood enjoying the sounds, lights of the holidays are a few suggestions.
•Stay active on a daily basis by using effective job search methods. Be proactive, and reach out to others.
•Consider contract positions. They are great opportunities to meet others, and expand your experience to different industries.
•Avoid making your job search the focus of the holiday season.
Completely putting your job search on the shelf for the New Year could be a costly mistake. You never can predict who you will meet or guess which jobs are available.
Most jobs are hidden. They don’t appear on boards or in ads. The hiring decision maker has them, and it is up to you to meet the decision maker.
You would be surprised at how many job seekers receive offers in the middle of December. This could be you!
What do you think? Are you going to be looking for a job this holiday season? How are you balancing the holidays with your job search?
