Conducting The Job Search During the Holidays
Job Tips November 2002
It is a myth that no one hires during the holidays.
Job hunters tend to stay on the sidelines because they believe the myth that no one hires during the holidays. Take advantage and cash in on this misconception that employers take a recruitment hiatus from November through January. It would be in your favor to pound the pavement with holiday spirit because there will be less competition during this time of year for new jobs.
Job hunters say they find it easier to speak with a potential employer on the telephone during the holidays because they can bypass vacationing gatekeepers, such as executive assistants and secretaries who would usually be screening calls.
Time Well Spent
It is amazing how little time is spent conducting the job search. According to psychologist Joyce Brothers, people are afraid to conduct their job search immediately after receiving a layoff. Most people feel frustration when they sit down to write their first resume, and most people seek diversions such as sleeping in late, reading the newspaper too long, and eating too much. Dr. Joyce recommends that the sooner you devote yourself to a job search the less scary it becomes. It is like the old saying that after you fall off of a horse you need to get back on as quickly as possible in order to overcome your fears.
Under Pressure
You might feel a bit under pressure after being laid off or receiving a termination notive because your self-esteem is plummeting and your bills are mounting. However it is important to keep a clear head.
Suggestions:
- Sort through job openings to find those that could complement your knowledge, skills, and abilities.
- Identify your strengths and what you can offer a new employer.
- Get in touch with skills that would transfer to other projects and companies.