Companies hire whenever they have a need, regardless of the time of year. And, contrary to popular opinion, the holidays are actually a good time to find a job. It may seem like the perfect time to take a break from your job search and assume no one is actively recruiting, but it’s actually a prime time for networking and interviewing.

With many job seekers dropping out of the market during the holidays, you’ll find there’s much less competition. Companies typically receive fewer applications, upping your odds for scoring an interview and having a face-to-face meeting with the hiring manager. Budget decisions are usually made in the fall for the coming year and openings are ready to be filled starting in January. Don’t wait or put your search on hold. Take this opportunity to stand out in a less crowded field and be ready to start work immediately.

Tips for Landing a Job before the End of the Year

How do you get the most out of your holiday season job search? Here are a few tips to land a job before the end of the year:

• Spread the Word: By all means, tell everyone you know that you’re looking for a new position. Take advantage of all the holiday parties, social media, social events or even your holiday greeting cards to let people know you’re in the market.
• Update and Polish your Elevator Speech:  Take advantage of an opportunity to sell yourself to a manager or executive with a well-crafted and delivered elevator pitch. If you can convey your strengths and experience in 60 seconds or less, you may just earn an opportunity to interview and share your resume.
• Accept all Invitations: You never know who you might see or meet. Go to all personal and professional events and let your acquaintances know you are looking for a job. Most people are happy to assist you by introducing you to someone they know or sharing a lead they’ve learned about.
• Use Online Networking Sites: Update your profile on LinkedIn as well as specific professional sites and connect with anyone who can help with your search. Holidays are a good time to re-connect with colleagues and expand your network.
• Make Yourself Available: Make sure you’re available to meet with recruiters and managers during the holiday season. Even though it may be challenging to balance all your holiday chores and fun with your job search, now is not the time to take a break.
• Part-Time can lead to Full Time: If a full-time position isn’t in the cards for December or January, but you’ve found a part-time position with potential, consider taking it. Once you get your foot in the door, you’re already on the manager’s radar when a full-time position is available.

Keep up the Search

Take advantage of this festive time of year when there’s less competition and a lot of networking opportunities. During the holiday season, people are feeling generous and are happy to help. Be ready, get the interview, and be available when the right moment appears.

When you’re attending a social function, ask for advice. People love to talk about themselves and what they know.  Pick their brains for information and ask their opinions. Let them be a resource for you. Make sure you listen and aren’t doing most of the talking.

Always bring along your contact information and take a few notes on a contact’s business card about what you discussed to jog your memory for future contact. Build a rapport by finding common interests and keeping it light and conversational. Be sure to follow up after the party or event and reference a topic you talked about. Making contacts is the key to finding your new position and the holidays are a perfect time to expand your network.