Holiday Job Search

   Don’t listen to people that tell you that no one is hiring during the holidays. Don’t slow down just because it’s Thanksgiving. Don’t relax since Christmas is almost here.  People are getting jobs every day and lots of folks are celebrating this Thanksgiving because they landed a job this week. Business doesn’t stop for the holidays. In fact, many companies are interviewing in November and December so they are ready to add headcount in January. 


   The holidays are a great time to interview and land a job. Sure some folks are distracted, but most are working hard and are in a little better mood due to the holidays. There’s Christmas music starting the day after Thanksgiving on radio stations around the country. The stores are hiring seasonal help getting ready for the “Black Friday” shopping surge. People are feeling a little more optimistic this year. It’s a great time to be doing a job search.


   So don’t give in to the temptation to slack off after Thanksgiving. Get out there and network. Reconnect with people you haven’t spoken to in awhile. Use the holidays as an excuse to contact them. “Just want to call and say hi. It’s been a while since we last talked...” Then ask if they can meet for coffee. Wouldn’t it be a great Christmas present if you landed a job at their company and they get a referral bonus?


   Your job search needs a sense of urgency and momentum. The momentum is easy: just increase your phone calls everyday. Follow up with more people everyday. Schedule two to four meeting everyday. Use the holidays as a reason for the urgency. “I thought we should meet before the holidays to discuss any ideas you might have. I’d really appreciate your help and advice...” 


   It’s the season of giving and what better way to help someone feel good over the holidays than letting them help you in finding, interviewing and landing a job. Happy Thanksgiving.