The window for getting a new job in 2023 is closing fast. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, we are a few weeks away from Christmas, and the New Year is less than two months away. In a few weeks, most companies will put a pause on their hiring as they prepare to wind down for the holiday break.
If you’re eager to land a new job before the year ends, now is the time to act. Here are four tips to help you get hired this winter season.
Get Your Toolkit Ready
Before everything else, make sure you have your job hunt toolkit all prepared and ready to go. Brush up your resume, practice those interview stories, and update your LinkedIn profile. Time is of the essence, so do this as soon as you can so that when an opportunity comes, you’re already prepared.
One of the biggest resume-related mistakes that I’ve seen job applicants make is using the same resume for all jobs. Different roles will require different skill sets, so make sure to tailor your resume to specific roles.
Highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements that are most relevant to the roles you’re pursuing. Ensure that your resume reflects your professional growth and showcases your strengths.
While working on your resume, update your LinkedIn profile as well. It’s a well-known fact that recruiters look at your social media, so you better hope that they like what they find. Upload a professional profile photo, write an engaging headline, and craft a summary that effectively captures your career aspirations and achievements.
Additionally, practice your interview stories. Practice talking about your accomplishments, the challenges you’ve overcome, and your ability to contribute effectively to potential employers. Rehearse your responses to common interview questions, especially when it comes to emphasizing your skills and how they align with the job requirements.
Find Companies That Are Hiring Right Now
There may not be as many out there, but there are always a few companies that will be hiring staff this late in the year. Maybe they’re anticipating the holiday rush, are experiencing unprojected growth or a staff member unexpectedly quit, and they need to fill it immediately. Look for these companies via your preferred job sites and keep a list of 10 to 15 to target.
My advice: be flexible and consider getting seasonal roles, as these are typically abundant this time of the year. Seasonal or temporary roles can serve as a foot in the door and potentially lead to permanent positions if you prove your skills, dedication, and expertise in the role.
Lean On Your Network
Your network will be crucial to tap into the next few weeks. But remember that true networking is not reaching out to people just when you need something from them, but it’s building win-win relationships over the course of your career. With that in mind, the holiday season is a good time to wish people well and give updates about your job search.
If you don’t have their email address or phone number, sending quick messages on LinkedIn also works. Here’s a sample message that you can use:
Hi Pearl, hope you are having a great holiday break! I wanted to reach out and give you a quick update. After 3 years with XYZ Company, I am looking for a new challenge and saw your company was hiring for a new Content Manager. If you have some time the next few weeks, I would love to jump on a call with you to catch up and learn more about your experience there. Thanks for your time in advance!
Remember to give people grace during the holiday period as they may not be checking their work emails and messages as often. As always, don’t have expectations and wish people well regardless if they can help you or not. That is what true networking is all about, especially during this time of the year.
Go All In Starting Now
And with that you’re off to the races. As mentioned, you don’t have many more weeks to be productive until offices shut down. So I suggest you start chipping away at your job search immediately and keep at it until the holiday season officially starts. The more you can tailor your application, apply for hot roles, and meet new people, the better your chances become!
However, don’t despair if you don’t end up with a new job before the end of the year. Worst case scenario is that you’ll be starting next year with a head start and that much closer to your goals. Do your best and take it one day at a time. Rooting for you!
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