In an effort to convince you to ramp up your job search efforts during the holidays (look below for links to part 1,  2, 3 and 4),  I’m sharing ideas and insights from some of my colleagues and friends during this holiday week and next. Today, I’m happy to share some thoughts from Wendy Enelow, author, trainer and career consultant with 28 years of experience in the careers and employment industry.

Here are some of her ideas regarding job hunting during the holiday season (especially for you busy bees!):

1. Use your down time wisely to support your job search and your career. If you’re currently working, then you’re probably looking forward to a bit of downtime during the holidays, at least a few days off of work. If you’re actively in a job search mode, this time can be allocated to updating your resume to showcase your most recent achievements … writing new and more impressive cover letters … upgrading your LinkedIn profile with new information and new success stories … there’s a lot you can do to enhance your portfolio of career marketing documents and strengthen your online identity. Use your time wisely to further prepare yourself for your current or anticipated job search.

2. READ!!! Use the holiday season to research industries and professions on the rise. Whether you’re currently employed or not, it is always wise to be knowledgeable about what’s hot and what’s not. Dedicate some of your time to learning about the job market in general. It’s always wonderful to operate from a position of power and knowledge, so be certain to stay abreast of what’s happening and what the trends forecast.

I am so glad that Wendy made a point of recognizing the opportunity that currently employed job seekers have at this time of the year. Recently, I have worked with several clients with very demanding jobs who are hoping to make changes soon. They were so busy, it was difficult to schedule our coaching sessions. My most timely advice to them – take advantage of this time of the year, when you will be traveling less and when things at work may slow a bit.

If YOU are a job seeker who wants (or needs) a new job, NOW is the time to act. Are your materials ready to go? How does your resume look? Take action for change while you have a little extra time, or you may find yourself in the same spot for much longer than you would like.

Are you relaxing or revving up your job hunt during the holidays? Share in the comments!

Part 1 – My suggestions and a free ebook offer

Part 2 – Walter Akana – take care of yourself

Part 3 – Anita Bruzzese – Stay ahead of the crowd

Part 4 – Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter – Unplug and embrace rest

I can help with every part of your job hunt! Need a great resume? Tips to use social networking? Interview coaching?  If you need help mobilizing your networks and your job search plans, learn more about how I can help you! While you’re at it, don’t forget those social networks! Be sure to become a fan of Keppie Careers on Facebook…I’d be thrilled to have you as part of the community! Since we’re on the subject of doing something new…Are you on Twitter? Jump on and touch base with me @keppie_careers.

photo by frankeyscreation