Four Strategies to Maintain an Edge in Your Job Hunt During December
Four Strategies to Maintain an Edge in Your Job Hunt During December
December gets a bad reputation when it comes to job hunting, with everyone thinking, "It's the worst time to look for a job." But the truth is, while hiring might slow down, this is actually when you can get a head start on everyone else.
To be honest, I used to share that same opinion. But after some time, I realized that December can actually be one of the most strategic months for job seekers. Come January, companies are starting fresh with new budgets and recruitment plans, and job postings usually increase by around 15% from December to January. This means that you'll want to be prepared to hit the ground running come the new year. The moves you make now can set you up for success in the new year. Here are four ways to take control of your career now:
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Want to be in the know about where the action is happening in your industry? Start paying attention to what's going on in your field: Which companies are growing? Who's launching new projects? Keep tabs on market trends and sectors like tech, healthcare, and renewable energy, which are often known for growth. For example, the AI boom is creating job opportunities in various fields, so staying on top of trends could help you discover hidden gems.
Stay informed by reading industry news and blogs, attending webinars, and joining online communities where professionals in your field are discussing real-time developments. It's always a good idea to keep yourself informed, as a little research now can put you miles ahead when you're ready to take advantage of new opportunities.
Make a Target List
Sending your resume to every job posting you see isn't a strategy. It's a shot in the dark. Instead, take some time to figure out where you want to work and make a list of companies that excite you. Start with niche job boards tailored to your industry or platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor. Sign up for job alerts and keep an eye out for new postings that align with your interests and skills.
But don't stop there. Dive deep into these companies. Understand their mission, goals, and culture. Know the skills they value most and the roles they need to fill. When you tailor your application to highlight how you align with their goals, it stands out. Hiring managers can tell when you've done your homework, and it shows that you're serious about contributing to their team.
Refresh and Upgrade
December is the perfect time for a little career makeover. Update your resume with your latest accomplishments. Give your LinkedIn profile some love by adding relevant keywords, joining a couple of groups, and sharing some thoughtful posts. Show potential employers that you're serious and ready.
And if there's a skill you've been meaning to sharpen, now's the time to do it. If you're aiming for a data analyst role, for example, brushing up on Excel or learning new visualization tools like Tableau can increase your marketability. Think about the role you're after and evaluate your qualifications. Refresh an old skill with an online course or practice exercises to show off your readiness during interviews. Employers love candidates who invest in themselves.
Reach Out to Your Network
The holidays are the perfect time to check in with your network. Have you considered sending a quick "Happy Holidays" email or a LinkedIn message? Or maybe even a good old-fashioned holiday card? Take a moment to thank the people who've supported you this year -- mentors, colleagues, or anyone who's made an impact. These simple gestures can help keep your connections strong.
Looking for your next opportunity? Mention that you're job hunting casually -- like, "I'm exploring new opportunities -- do you know of anything that might be a fit?" This keeps things light while giving people the opportunity to keep your name in mind for future opportunities. December isn't just a time for parties; it's also a time to make things happen. Start the new year off right by staying busy in December. Your efforts now will pay off in the new year when hiring picks up speed. You've got this!
- Despite the common belief, December can be a strategic month for job seekers as companies start fresh with new budgets and recruitment plans in January, leading to a 15% increase in job postings.
- To stay ahead of industry trends, it's essential to pay attention to market trends and sectors like tech, healthcare, and renewable energy, which are often known for growth. Keeping informed through industry news, blogs, webinars, and online communities can put you in a strong position when opportunities arise.
- When job hunting, tailoring applications to align with companies' goals and values can increase visibility. This involves understanding the skills they value most and adjusting your resume and LinkedIn profile accordingly, showcasing your suitability for the role.
- In preparation for the new year, updating your resume with recent accomplishments, improving your LinkedIn profile by adding keywords and participating in groups, and sharpening relevant skills with online courses or practice exercises can make you more attractive to potential employers.
- Reaching out to your professional network during the holiday season can help maintain connections and keep your name in mind for future opportunities. A simple holiday card, email, or message can strengthen existing relationships and open doors for potential job leads.