6 Ways to Run a Successful Job Search During the Holidays

Running a holiday job search can be a challenge, as some companies slow their hiring down this time of year, recruiters and hiring managers are less available, and distractions abound. But with the right strategy, you can get a jump on the new year and find your next opportunity. In this guide, we’ll go over how you can successfully navigate your job search during the holidays, stand out when hiring managers’ attention is elsewhere, and apply for jobs in December and beyond.

6 Tips for Applying for Jobs in December

Despite the challenges you may face during the holiday job search, you shouldn’t give up. Yes, many employers are slowing down in hiring, but that doesn’t mean you should slow down in applying. There are still opportunities out there, and if you put your search on hold, you may miss out! To help you stay on course and engage in a successful holiday job search, here are six ways to stand out when applying for a job.

1. Spread Holiday Cheer

Use the holiday season as an opportunity to spread joy and generosity. Now, we’re not talking big, expensive gifts, which may send the wrong message or make prospective employers feel awkward. Instead, after an interview, you could send a holiday-themed thank you note to show your appreciation for the time spent together. You can also use the holidays as a reason to follow up and remind them of your interest in the role with a custom and highly personalized holiday card.

2. Attend Holiday Events

With the holidays here, there are bound to be plenty of events to attend. Check out community events and networking events. Any event will be an opportunity to network and connect with others. During your job search, connection is the key to finding your next job. Approach people, introduce yourself, and make those new connections. Be sure to mention your industry and any in-demand skills that you have. Let them know that you’re looking for work. The holiday season is a great opportunity for the community to get together, and you never know whom you might meet or how that connection will help you in your holiday job search.

3. Volunteer Your Time 

People are overwhelmed during this season, and community organizations could really use an extra hand. So, feel free to volunteer during this time. You can volunteer at soup kitchens and homeless shelters where the holiday rush can be truly overwhelming. There are also other events you can volunteer at as well, such as helping Santa at community centers or volunteering at different children’s hospitals.

Helping the community isn’t just a way to feel good about yourself, but also a way to give back to those who need it. What’s more, you can use your volunteering time to make new connections, boost your personal brand, improve your online presence through media coverage, and more. Plus, you can add any volunteer experience to your resume and bring it up in interviews. Your potential employer will appreciate the initiative you take during this time to give back. It shows that you are compassionate, community-oriented, and proactive – qualities that employers really admire.

4. Apply for Seasonal Opportunities

Even if you’re not exactly looking for a seasonal opportunity and would prefer a full-time job, you should still take the time to apply for seasonal work. Many companies are hiring seasonal workers to cover the holiday rush and employee vacations. Yes, many of these jobs will be in retail, but even seasonal retail jobs can boost your career. Not only does it give you the chance to network, but it also provides you the chance to learn new marketable skills and stay active in the workforce. Plus, seasonal work is often flexible, so if flexibility is important to you, then that’s a plus.

Unfortunately, seasonal work only lasts a short while, but sometimes those seasonal jobs transition into full-time work or lead to other opportunities. Either way, it’s something that you can add to your resume while making some cash.

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5. Reconnect With Past Friends and Colleagues

Now is the perfect time to reconnect with past friends and colleagues. If you haven’t been on Facebook or LinkedIn in a while, check in! Reach out to people with a friendly holiday greeting. Let them know you’re currently in the market for a job and see if they have any leads for you. You never know who might be hiring. Maybe a company is looking to hire but hasn’t had the time to post about it yet. Reconnecting with friends, colleagues, and previous bosses can put you at the front.

6. Use Your Free Time to Grow

Have free time? Use it! Don’t sit around and waste whatever time you have. Now, that’s not to say that you can’t enjoy some leisure activities and family time, but you should definitely be using some of your free time to grow and learn. See what’s in demand and focus on learning a new skill or two by going to seminars or trainings or taking courses. Obtaining new skills will help you outshine your competition and increase your chance of landing a job by showing your commitment to growth and adaptability.

Stand Out as a Job Seeker This Holiday Season

As you prepare to go into the job market this season, follow these tips so you can be more successful. Explore our Resource Center for more job search guidance as well as our database of verified jobs today!