The holidays are always a wonderful time of the year. It’s a time for family, friends, and celebrations. But amidst all the festivities, one group of individuals is preparing for something very different during the latter months of the year – the job seekers.
According to an article by Forbes, many employees seek new jobs at the start of a new year. Over 70% of workers cited the desire to negotiate for improved compensation and benefits, while nearly 55% pursued better career growth prospects. The new year often symbolizes a fresh start. To many, this entails seeking new opportunities and challenges in their career. This transition period is seen by many as a chance to overcome stagnation in their current roles, improve work-life balance, or simply strive for a change in their professional environment.
What’s With December for Employees?
December represents an essential time for employees considering a career change for several reasons. Firstly, the end of the year is a natural time for reflection, allowing individuals to assess their professional growth and job satisfaction over the past year. Secondly, many companies have finalized their budgets and set their objectives for the coming year in Q4, most likely already finished by December, clarifying potential opportunities or stagnation. Lastly, job seekers may find that the holiday season’s spirit of goodwill extends to the job market, with hiring managers more open to conversations and networking.
When considering a job transition, employees often consider numerous factors. Here are some of the primary reasons:
- Seeking Better Compensation: This is often the most common reason for seeking a new job. Employees may feel they are not adequately rewarded for their work and believe they can achieve better financial remuneration elsewhere.
- Career Growth: Employees may feel they have hit a plateau in their current role with limited opportunities for professional growth or promotion. A new company could allow them to take on new challenges and expand their skill set.
- Work-Life Balance: Some individuals may seek a new job to better balance their professional and personal lives. This could involve seeking flexible work arrangements or reducing commute time to spend more time with family.
- Job Security: In uncertain economic times, employees may seek positions that offer greater job security.
- Company Culture: Employees who feel out of sync with their current company’s culture may seek a role more aligned with its values and ethos. Toxic managers or company cultures can negatively affect employees’ well-being and motivation.
- Desire for Change: Some employees may crave change after being in the same role or company for a long time. They may seek a new job to bring excitement and novelty into their professional life.
In December, employees might reflect on what they want out of their lives, leading to the long-awaited “New Year, New Me” resolution that often includes a job transition. Nonetheless, it is crucial to evaluate the reasons for seeking a new job and ensure they align with personal and professional goals.
Companies Gear Up in January
While job seekers are contemplating the next steps in their career journey in December, companies are also acutely aware of this period of reflection. Many organizations anticipate the influx of a motivated and refreshed talent pool in January, eager to make a fresh start with the new year and ramp up their recruitment efforts accordingly.
In anticipation of this wave of potential candidates, companies may finalize job descriptions, identify skill gaps, and establish hiring budgets during December’s final weeks. They also often use this time to reassess their existing workforce and future staffing needs thoroughly. Furthermore, organizations realize that their current employees might also be contemplating a career move, and hence, they may introduce retention strategies like year-end bonuses or employee recognition programs.
In essence, January serves as a fresh start not just for individuals but also for companies. By understanding the mindset of job seekers in December, organizations can effectively strategize their recruitment campaigns to attract the best talent and kickstart the new year on a solid note.
What Should Job Seekers Do in December?
December is an essential preparatory period for job seekers wishing to embark on a new professional journey in the coming year. This is the time to reflect on current employment satisfaction, consider future career goals, and start the groundwork for transition.
Moreover, taking steps in December gives job seekers a head start, better positioning them to seize new opportunities as soon as they emerge in January.
Reevaluate Career Goals
Start by taking an honest assessment of your career path. Are you satisfied with your current job? What are your long-term career goals? Do you see opportunities for growth in your present role? Answering these questions will help you understand whether a job change aligns with your career trajectory.
Sometimes, personal goals matter when searching for a new job. Aligning your career with the proper work-life balance, better financial compensation, or more suitable company culture is just as crucial as career growth. Identify these factors early on to help narrow down your job search.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Your resume and LinkedIn profile are vital tools in your job search. Start by updating your work history, skills and accomplishments. Ensure your LinkedIn profile mirrors your resume and includes endorsements for your skills.
For your resume, focus on quantifiable achievements that showcase your capabilities and distinguish you from other job seekers. Be sure to tailor your resume for each role you apply for, highlighting relevant skills and experience. Your portfolio might also need updating, so include your latest projects and work samples.
LinkedIn offers a wealth of resources to help you optimize your profile and improve your visibility in the job market. Utilize these tools to make yourself stand out from other candidates.
Research Potential Employers
Once you’ve recognized your career goals, research potential employers who fit those goals. Look at factors like company culture, growth opportunities and benefits. This will make your job search more targeted and fruitful.
Networking
December is a great time to reconnect with your professional network. Attend industry events, engage with connections on LinkedIn or meet for coffee. These relationships can be valuable sources of job leads, recommendations and insider company information.
Of course, it can be unpleasant for people you are trying to reach out to during the holidays. As a result, you might want to respect their time and connect digitally instead. This new style of networking can prove productive if handled strategically.
Learn and Upskill
Identify any skills gaps and take steps to learn and upskill. This could involve taking online courses, attending workshops or reading industry publications. Committing to continuous learning can make you more attractive to potential employers.
By spending December preparing for your job search, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running in January. It’s about being proactive and setting yourself up for success in the new year.
What to Start Doing in January
When January arrives, applying for multiple jobs that align with your career goals is crucial. Casting a wider net can increase your chances of landing a suitable job. Don’t limit your applications to one or two companies you’re particularly interested in. Expand your horizons and consider other organizations that may offer similar roles. This strategy can increase your chances of getting interviews and multiple job offers. With several options on the table, you’ll be in a stronger position to negotiate and choose a role that best aligns with your career aspirations and personal needs.
- Prepare Customized Applications: While applying to multiple jobs, remember that each application should be tailored to the role and organization. Ensure your resume and cover letter highlight the skills and experience most relevant to each job.
- Track Your Applications: Staying organized is essential since you’ll be applying to several positions. Track where and when you’ve used, follow-up dates and responses. Tools like spreadsheets or job search apps can be of great help.
- Prepare for Interviews: You should prepare for possible interviews beforehand. Research common interview questions, practice your answers, and learn about the company’s culture and values. This preparation will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
- Don’t Neglect Follow-ups: After applying, follow up with the company within a reasonable timeframe, typically one to two weeks. This can show your interest in the role and help your application stand out.
- Consider Temporary or Contract Work: While your ultimate goal might be permanent, don’t rule out temporary or contract work. This could be a foot-in-the-door opportunity, leading to a permanent place in the future.
- Prepare Customized Applications: While applying to multiple jobs, remember that each application should be tailored to the role and organization. Ensure your resume and cover letter highlight the skills and experience most relevant to each job.
Remember, the job search process can be full of ups and downs. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back immediately—stay patient and persistent, and keep your options open. January is just the start of your journey toward the next step in your career.
Why Wait? Apply Now at iSupport Worldwide!
As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it’s time to take charge of your career path. Whether you’re seeking better compensation, yearning for a change, or searching for a company with a vibrant culture, remember that the opportunity for transformation begins with you.
iSupport Worldwide values talent, initiative, and passion as it caters to trailblazing and fast-rising international clients. As a result, the organization continuously produces career opportunities for job seekers. iSupport Worldwide strives to provide an environment that fosters growth, encourages innovation, and rewards diligence. We understand that our strength lies in our diverse and dedicated team. So, why wait for the new year? Kickstart your journey today and apply at iSupport Worldwide!