Debunking Five Holiday Myths About Job Hunting
November 25, 2003
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- For energetic, creative jobseekers, the holiday season at year end is not a time to slack off and relax because of some long-held myths, rather it's a time for unique networking and hiring efforts -- a shift from self-centered outreach to a more natural reconnecting with already established business and professional contacts.
According to Paulette Ashlin, senior vice president and general manager of the Charlotte office of Lee Hecht Harrison, a global career management services company, "Many jobseekers fall victim to five common myths for inaction. In reality, the holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Years offer special opportunities. It's a time for innovative thinking and planning to land the perfect job."
Myth #1: Employers hibernate between Thanksgiving and New Year's.
While it is true about half the hiring managers go on vacation for some period during the holidays, the other half are at their desks. Because many of their secretaries are on vacations, managers may be answering their phones directly. Many are considering hiring decisions right after January 1.
Given greater access to managers and decreased competition from other jobseekers, the holidays can be a surprisingly good time to be looking for a job.
Myth #2: I can't afford gifts for family and friends.
The rule is give what you've got. For example, if you have got time on your hands, make some gifts. Another idea is to select some favorite things you own, like a special book, and give them as gifts with a note in each about why the gift is important to you.
Myth #3: As the days get shorter, my mood will get more negative.
For many job hunters, the holiday season is the most stressful time of the year. Rejections, disappointments and financial pressures can affect one's mood. Keep in mind that plenty of people are worse off than you are. Count your blessings by helping those less fortunate. Wrap presents at a shelter or serve meals to the homeless. Remember, a job comes from creating opportunities. The search requires a positive attitude, so make a gratitude list and carry it with you.
Myth #4: People will avoid me at parties.
Job loss is not a communicable disease. Your attitude, more than your employment situation, will determine whether or not people want to be around you. When going to a party, practice focusing on others instead of yourself. When Uncle Ralph asks, "Haven't you found something yet?" say "Actually, I'm right where I expected to be. It's been an interesting year. I've learned a lot and I'm grateful for the holidays." Use parties to network in a tactful way. Remember, Great Aunt Matilda may have a neighbor who is looking for an IT network manager. Stranger things have happened.
Myth #5: I'll have nothing good to say in my holiday letter.
There is no law that says you have to write one. If you do, try something different such as family members writing their stories in the holiday letter. Another option is to write a holiday card to each person you've networked with during the year. Give an update on your status; showing appreciation for all the support and help you have received.
Above all, don't let these myths derail you from success. Remember this three-step approach to job-hunting during the holidays:
Step #1: Reflect on your values. Think about what is really important to you and how you can express your values in your life, your search and the marketplace.
Step #2: Have prepared responses ready for holiday parties and don't hesitate to ask for help. Send holiday cards to your network contacts -- don't ask for anything, simply express a positive seasonal greeting and thank them for their support.
Step #3: Maintain a job search routine. Nothing compensates for the bread and butter of a job search routine. Research target companies, network, make calls, arrange meetings, and send thank you notes. Don't take a break from the job search during the holidays.
Source: PRNewswire
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