How to Start Job Searching During the Holidays

The holiday season is approaching and this is the best time for those planning to find an internship or full-time job in the coming months. The only concern you have is not knowing where to start. When you are job searching, it is important to plan and strategize. By organizing your job search, you are able to be more efficient and keep on top of your job applications.

You could either take a long break during the holidays or start searching for jobs. Below are some tips on how you can start job search during the break:

1) Update your resume

It is always a good habit to update your resume because you’ll never know if a recruiter might be asking for one. For example, you have an upcoming networking event and your resume is outdated. To avoid this, it is always a good habit to update your resume at least twice a year. Your resume might get longer once you get more experience, so it is always important to have experience on your resume that is relevant to the job you are applying too.

2) Organize your job search with a spreadsheet

How organized is your job search? Do you have a spreadsheet to keep track of your job applications? Our team at careerbyte created a spreadsheet for you to use to ensure that you are not lost in the job search process. In the spreadsheet, there are sections for resume submissions, interviews, and networking. Get started and create your own job hunt spreadsheet!

3) Network on LinkedIn

If you are not LinkedIn yet, now is a good time to sign up. On LinkedIn, you get to have the opportunity to network with alumni and colleagues from your school. Let’s assume that you are applying to a Software Engineering position at XYZ Company. You find out that there is an alum from your school working at XYZ Company on LinkedIn. You can then contact that alum and express your interest in the Software Engineering position you are applying too. With the power of LinkedIn, you are able to meet individuals that have the same passions as yourself and get the opportunity to expand your network.

4) Scour job searching websites and take notes

Websites like Indeed.com are the perfect starting point to begin your job search journey. You get a chance to find out what companies in your area are hiring. Once you get your job search rolling, it is important to take note of the job description. Understand what positions match your experience and you can add specific keywords to your resume to ensure you the right fit for the position.

5) Make a list of references to contact

Networking events are great because you have the opportunity to meet with students and professionals that are in the industry. It is always wise to bring business cards, so you can exchange them at the networking event. Once you collect the business cards, this is a great opportunity to add them on LinkedIn and also record down their information for future opportunities. Making a list of references to contact would be helpful in your job search and knowing the right contacts will help in the long run.

6) Create a cover letter template

Some companies will require you to submit a cover letter as part of the application process. It will make the process less tedious if you create a cover letter template ahead of time. In your template, include information such as your objective or goal, the name of your school, major and one project or past experience that makes you stand out. Of course, don’t worry about leaving out information regarding the role you are applying to since you will fill those in during the application process. A key thing to keep in mind is that you have to make sure what you state in your objective and the project/experience you mentioned is related to the industry you are applying to. It is not uncommon for job seekers to have multiple templates, each tailored towards a specific industry.

Below is our custom cover letter template: