Three reasons to job-hunt during the holidays

Competition is often lower during the holidays because most job seekers slow down with the intent of beginning again at the start of the New Year. Companies looking to hire talented individuals never stop recruiting. Staying in job-hunting mode through the holiday season also helps keep you top-of-mind as companies prepare to hire in the New Year.

The charitable holiday spirit encourages networking. People’s interest in helping others is often amplified during the holidays, so take advantage of it. Schedule informational interviews or coffees to learn about different companies and career opportunities, and then explore your best fit in that industry or particular organization. It’s a great confidence booster and can give you better insight about how to focus your search.

Let holiday parties do double-duty. Social events during the holidays give you the chance to connect and network with those you wouldn’t meet otherwise. Seek out and attend industry holiday events or those hosted by professional organizations. It pays to keep etiquette top of mind, as well:

• Don’t come hungry. This applies to food and networking. Instead of going to a holiday party with a laser focus on job leads, attend with the intent to make connections and build relationships. Mindset is everything, so be subtle and sociable.

• Follow up. Transfer talk to action with a thank-you note via email or LinkedIn to maintain momentum on opportunities discussed.

Jane Trnka is the executive director for the Career Resource Center at the Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business. For more information, visit www.rollins.edu/business