Don't Let Your Job Search Take a Holiday, Says CareerCast.com

CARLSBAD, Calif. and AMSTERDAM, Nov. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Most job seekers assume the time between Thanksgiving and New Year's is a dead zone for hiring, but it's not true, says a new CareerCast.com report. Jobs are filled year-round and companies are non-denominational when trying to fill open positions at year-end.  

"The common perception that hiring disappears during the holidays is a myth," says Tony Lee, publisher, CareerCast.com. "By doubling your efforts over the holidays at a time when many other unemployed workers are focused on activities other than job hunting, you increase your odds of finding a new position."

The holiday period is a great time to job hunt. There are many opportunities to network and connect with others who can help you find your way out of the unemployment line.  By vacationing from job-hunting during the holidays, you may be passing up on a potential job opportunity.  

CareerCast.com offers these tips and techniques to network your way into a new job:

Hiring Never Stops.  Most companies don't change their hiring practices just because the calendar shows December.  

Networking Wonderland– The holidays are a great excuse for job seekers to reach out to old work contacts.  Naturally, this is also a great (and non-threatening) opening to catch up with previous employers and co-workers and to let them know you're in the market for a job.  

Be Merry and Bright - Holiday parties are an excellent time to catch up with old friends and make new ones. Take advantage of these happy gatherings to talk to everyone you know – and everyone they can introduce you to - to make possible job connections.  

Give Thanks – The holidays are a particularly appropriate time to thank all those who have helped you in your job search. Send them an old-fashioned, handwritten thank-you note to let them know how much you appreciate their assistance and advice.

It's a Numbers Game – Most job seekers decide to abandon their job searches until after the new year to focus on friends and family. This means less competition and better odds of finding a job if you put forth a serious effort.  

So take advantage of the holiday to make connections.  Get motivated, be merry and mingle your way into a new job.

For more information, visit www.CareerCast.com.

SOURCE CareerCast.com

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