“I am too busy to even think about looking for a job right now” is the lament I have heard from many of those seeking employment. Some automatically assume employers put their recruitment efforts on ice in December but that is not necessarily the case. There are still opportunities out there. December may actually be a great time to increase your efforts.
Laura Loughlin, President of Loughlin Personnel (loughlinpersonnel.com) advises, “Never put your job search on hold.” She asks, “Why delay?” If you are currently employed and are looking for a different job you may have some remaining days left that you can use to schedule time to meet with a recruiter.
If you are unemployed, clearly you should be actively looking. “I can’t imagine that it is not worth an hour of someone’s time to meet with a recruiter to assist in their job search” says Loughlin.
The need for temporary employees actually increases at this time of year. Companies have year-end projects that may require extra personnel. In addition, many full time employees take vacation at this time and temporaries are needed to fill in.
While a temporary job may not be optimal it does have advantages. First, you will be earning money. As we know, the bills do not stop because you do not have a job. Next, it is a foot in the door. Many companies eventually hire temporary employees for permanent positions.
Loughlin says, “A temporary assignment is a really great way to enter an organization. It gives both the employee and the employer a chance to try each other out.” Finally, it adds to your professional experience.
Still, there are some who feel that the holiday season is just not a time they want to look for a job. One young lady I spoke with told me she has delayed her job search because she simply has too much going on this time of year and continuing to actively look for a new job would just be adding more stress to her life. However, she shared that she is still periodically monitoring job boards and if anything looked good she would submit her resume for consideration. It should be noted that, while she is seeking new employment, she currently has a full-time job.
Job hunters know that finding a job is a job in itself. If you do decide to take a sabbatical from your job search there are still some things you can do to improve yourself as a candidate. Review and if necessary, update your resume. In addition to networking at Holiday gatherings; reach out to colleagues and wish them success in the New Year. You can add, “If I can contribute to your success I would be glad to come in for an interview.”
Hoping that all of the unwaged find suitable employment in 2012.
