Between holiday parties, travel, and end-of-year plans, many job seekers put their search on hold. But November can actually be a valuable time to find new opportunities, especially if you’re open to temporary or seasonal work.
When looking for work, don’t let the busy holiday season stop you from moving forward. Have a conversation with the employment experts at Staffing Network. A strategic November job search can position you for opportunities in the months ahead.
A November Job Search That Works Around Your Holiday Plans
Between Thanksgiving preparations, family commitments, and travel, your schedule may be more crowded than usual. But this does not mean you need to abandon your job search. A little organization can help you stay consistent without sacrificing time with friends and family.
Start by creating time blocks for job search activities. For example, you might spend an hour or two on Monday and Wednesday mornings submitting applications, then reserve Friday afternoons for researching new opportunities.
Keep your resume updated and easily accessible so you can respond quickly when an interesting position becomes available. If a recruiter contacts you about an opportunity, let them know your availability. Be upfront about holiday travel or scheduling conflicts.
Keep Applying, Even When Decision-Makers Are Away
Another mistake job seekers make during a November job search is assuming there is no point in applying because hiring managers will be out of the office.
The reality is some employers continue making hiring decisions throughout November and December. Continue to submit applications for positions that match your skills and interests. Follow up professionally when appropriate, and explore a range of opportunities rather than waiting on one employer.
Working with a staffing firm can also help you avoid getting lost in a crowded online application process. A recruiter can help identify positions that match your experience, communicate directly with employers, and keep you informed about positions that may not be widely advertised.
Temporary Work Can Be a Step Toward Something Bigger
For individuals who have been out of the workforce for a while, temporary work can be a lifeline. Temp work is great for people who want to earn an income and aren’t getting much traction from online applications, too. Submitting dozens of resumes without receiving a response is frustrating. In these situations, job hunters may begin to wonder whether their application materials are reaching the right people.
Short-term seasonal positions can be a useful starting point. They allow you to demonstrate your reliability, develop new skills, gain recent work experience, and make professional connections. You may even discover an industry or role you hadn’t previously considered.
You don’t have to figure out your next career move alone. A staffing partner can help you identify realistic opportunities, understand what employers are looking for, and find positions that fit your availability and experience.
Would a temp gig be a good way to gas up your November job search? Staffing Network is a full-service staffing and recruiting firm that specializes in industrial, engineering, and operations professionals. Connect with Staffing Network today.
