Job Searching During the Holidays

By Lottie Williams

As the leaves turn and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, we are well into the final quarter of the year. The holiday season is traditionally a time of celebration and joy, but for job seekers, it can bring its share of challenges. Many companies tend to slow down their hiring processes or even put them on hold until the new year, making it a bit more challenging to secure a new job.

Several factors contribute to the reluctance of companies to hire during the holiday season. First, with many employees taking time off, arranging interviews and other hiring activities becomes a logistical challenge. Secondly, companies are often preoccupied with closing out the current year and preparing for the upcoming one, leaving them with limited time and resources for recruitment.

However, there is some good news and hope for job seekers during this time of year. A recent survey by Indeed revealed that 60% of employers plan to hire new employees during this period, offering a valuable opportunity for both job seekers and businesses alike. With year-end goals to meet and unused budget allocations, many companies open job opportunities, providing a cornucopia of chances for job seekers.

Despite the hurdles, finding a job during the holiday season is entirely feasible. Here are some valuable tips for job seekers:

• Start your job search early: Don’t procrastinate. The earlier you initiate your job search, the more time you’ll have to discover job openings, apply, and prepare for interviews.
• Using a Recruiter to Navigate Your Job Search: Recruiters can be your invaluable allies during the holiday job search. At ALTA IT Services, we have a team of experienced and dedicated recruiters ready to support you in finding the ideal job match.
• Be flexible with your availability: Hiring managers often favor candidates who can accommodate flexible interview schedules.
• Tailor your resume and cover letter: Customize your application materials for each job you apply for. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific position.
• Network with professionals in your field: Networking is a powerful tool. Attending industry events, connecting with peers on LinkedIn, and reaching out to former colleagues and classmates to expand your job search horizons.
• Be patient and persistent: Finding a job might take longer during the holidays, but perseverance is key. Keep applying and networking within your industry.

Furthermore, during Thanksgiving, you can leverage the holiday to enhance your job search:

• Use the Thanksgiving holiday to your advantage: While many take a break to relax and celebrate, you can seize the opportunity to update your resume and cover letter, research potential employers, and network within your field.
• Reach out to recruiters: Many recruiters work during the holiday season and can provide valuable assistance in finding unadvertised job opportunities.
• Don’t hesitate to follow up: After applying for a job during the holidays, following up with the hiring manager demonstrates your continued interest and commitment to your job search.

Thanksgiving, a time of reflection and gratitude, can also be a pivotal moment for your career. Take the opportunity to contemplate your career goals and develop a plan to achieve them. Additionally, social gatherings and industry events during the holiday season provide ample opportunities to expand your professional network and uncover job openings.

While the holiday season may pose challenges for job seekers, it’s important to remain persistent and optimistic. With dedication and the right strategies, you can overcome these obstacles and increase your chances of finding a job during this special time of year.

As you navigate your job search during the holiday season, consider partnering with ALTA IT Services to harness the expertise of our recruiters. Together, we can help you secure a new job that aligns with your career aspirations.