“It’s nearly Christmas. I’ll start my job search again in the new year.”
Does this sound like you?
Here’s why you should start your job search at Christmas.
Why continuing your job search at Christmas could give you the advantage
1. Companies are still hiring
Just because it’s leading up to the Christmas shut down, it doesn’t mean there aren’t vacancies that need to be filled.
In fact, many companies want to get a head start to make sure they have the people they need in place for the new year.
This is a crucial reason to start your job search at Christmas.
2. You’ll have less competition for roles than at other times of the year
For most people, looking for another job – especially if you are already employed – comes second to the hectic plans and preparation that Christmas time brings.
If you are someone that is good at multitasking, you might find there is less competition for jobs at this time of year, increasing your chances of interviews and job offers.
3. Christmas events are networking opportunities
Seasonal functions during December could be the perfect opportunity to connect with people who might be able to help with your job search.
Make sure that you bring along a business card and don’t be shy when approaching people and explaining your situation.
4. Live the meaning ‘New Year, New Career’
Don’t start the year with a list of resolutions.
Forget starting the new year at the same job, promising yourself that you will start your job search at some point in the future.
By getting ahead of the game in December, you could potentially go into the new year with a new job lined up – really giving you the chance to kick start your new year the right way!
5. The Christmas break could help with your notice period
It’s tricky negotiating start dates with your new employer and your current one and having to please both parties.
With the Christmas holiday shutdown, you could find this problem is easily solved as well as allowing you to have time off between your new employment.
Happy days!
6. Use your time off to help prepare for New Year interviews
Time off at Christmas is the perfect opportunity to brush up on your interview technique or go over your CV.
For additional help, take a look at 5 tips for job seekers blog.
7. Prevent a job search rut
If you stop your job search at Christmas, it can be difficult to get back into the swing of things in the new year, especially with the post-Christmas blues.
Keep the momentum going and you’ll be able to quickly spot the best opportunities for you.
8. Reconnect with existing contacts
Don’t just wait for networking opportunities to speak with your existing contacts.
The holiday season is the perfect time to reconnect with recruiters and previous employers to wish them a Merry Christmas or a Happy New Year and remind them that you are around.
9. Avoid the January rush
The new year is full of reminders to start afresh and there will be plenty of people on the job hunt in January.
Beat the rush and have your new start planned by Christmas day.
10. It can be easier to catch people – and in the festive spirit!
As businesses wind down for their break, many hiring managers will be spending more time at their desks and finishing up projects.
This reduced stress will probably put them in a much happier mood as well.
This could be the perfect opportunity to approach them about potential vacancies they might have now or in the new year.
This will give you another head start and helping you to stand out from the crowd.
For more recruitment tips and advice, follow Astute on LinkedIn.
If you are looking for a new job, take a look at Astute’s latest jobs in Power Generation, Renewable and Nuclear Energy on our Looking for a job page.
