Many people wait until the New Year to start their job search or change their career path. However, they forget that December is also a valuable time for job seekers to get their foot in the door and keep the job search going. Besides just spending your time holiday shopping and traveling, you can use this month to set up the new year with a new job opportunity. A survey reported that 94% of employers believe that candidates should continue or begin their job hunt during the holidays. Here are a few reasons why December is the best time of the year to look for a job.

 

Now is a perfect time to mix and mingle. The family and friends you see during the holidays are great support systems and can give you respectable advice. Share with them what you want to do, your skills and experience. Ask your loved ones if they know anyone who could be a valuable connection to you. Even if you aren’t job searching at the moment, it’s valuable to check in with previous colleagues or mentors, making it much easier to reach out again when you are looking.

Everyone knows the craze the holiday season brings, which is why many organizations hire extra help. With a boost in business in certain sectors and many employees taking time off to travel or be with family, companies often rely on temporary or seasonal workers to fill these spots. Also, keep in mind many of these temporary positions can blossom into full-time work.

 

With fewer people applying for jobs, it’s easier to stand out and make a meaningful first impression. Actively looking for a job during this busy time demonstrates your full determination and drive. Statistically, many individuals quit their jobs or leave for other opportunities at the end of the year, creating a pool of open positions for you, along with decreased competition!

With many employees out of the office on vacation, directly connecting with hiring managers can be easier, as they’ll have more time to respond to calls and emails. Don’t give up if you receive the dreaded “out of the office” email. Be persistent and find out who else within the company you can connect with in order to advance your job search.

 

Organizations are preparing for the new year and want to start it off on the right foot. If they have a job opening, they will likely be eager to fill it so they can begin the new year with a fresh start. It’s a good idea to submit your application now so that you will be top of mind for the employer when they make their hiring decisions for the new year.

It’s a good idea to start looking for a new job in December, instead of waiting until after the holidays. While others are taking a break, you can take advantage of this time to send out your applications and cover letters. Don’t wait until later, start today and you’ll be glad you did!

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