Holidays are opportunities to have productive conversations. The doors are cracked open for longer periods of time. Business is slower in the corporate world. Time to make calls, meet people, and not crash the Job boards for rebounds or jobs. Person-to-person contact is best during slow periods. Don’t expect an offer, but expect to stand out in a crowd of tens and hundreds of people:

1) Got to the holiday parties. If you can amicably crash a holiday party, and expand your network, it is worth the time to do so. I like follow-up with people within 24 hours of meeting them just to say hi. This short window reminds them why they like you, and I guarantee you will positively stand out as long as you keep the follow-up call under five minutes.

2) Call HR for informational interviews. People are likely to have the time to talk with you, and possibly talk to other key people.

3) Call customer service (#800). Unless they are a retail organization, phone coverage is light and slow. You can find out about the company, its brand, products, and potential decision makers. Bring the holiday spirit, because these people are potentially sacrificing their holiday time with loved ones. Beware: Companies that outsource their customer service may not be U.S. based, so approach with caution. It is wise to ask where they are located, and note their time zone. Be friendly, kind, and anonymous.

4) Call for the company’s annual report. The annual report can tell you a lot about the company’s brand, diversity, and company culture. Remember, you desire to work there, right?

5) Call mentors, people you respect, and people you are using as references. Thank them, pick their brain, but listen more to them. Learn, but don’t burn!

Notice that none of these suggestions include social networking, email, or anything that requires a PC. People are friendlier, more open to give, and willing to take an extra minute to talk. 

Mark Anthony Dyson

TheVoiceofJobSeekers.com