Although this is article is specifically about job hunting during the holidays, it offers common sense advice that is practicable for any time of year.

 

From JobSeeker Weekly:

 

Article:	Tips for a Holiday Job Search

By Norine Dagliano, Certified Professional Resume Writer and Outplacement Professional

If you are currently unemployed, the holidays can be particularly rough. But take heart, contrary to popular belief this is one of the best times of the year to be looking for employment. Many companies implement a new direction or strategy at the first of the year, resulting in a "First of the Year" hiring surge. With New Year business strategies mapped out, companies start aggressively looking for resumes and interviewing new job candidates in November and December.

Following are some tips to guide you in pursuing your next job during the holidays:

1. Face the facts: looking for work is stressful, and the holidays are stressful. Create systems and supports to keep stress in balance. Remember, people who are stressed are not attractive employment candidates.

2. Capitalize on the knowledge that most job seekers think the holidays are a bad time to look for work. Take advantage of this time when the competition is not as strong. Demonstrate to prospective employers your motivation and ability to stay on task.

3. Stay committed to your first priority ... getting a new job. Stick to a routine. Think - look- act like an employed professional. Don't let your job search take a back seat to the holidays. Being unemployed does not mean you have unlimited time to devote to the holidays.

4. Re-assess and re-energize your job search strategy. Make manageable, daily job search "to-do" lists and schedule time for them on your calendar. Spruce up your employment portfolio and resume. Research target companies. Practice interviewing with a coach. Register with all the top online career websites and post your resume.

5. Remain positive ... redefine your holiday traditions. Give yourself permission to let go of costly holiday traditions and create new ones that require less time and money.

6. Network while you socialize. Learn about other people's jobs and companies. Become known as a talented and likeable person before their company has openings. You will be remembered and have a foot in the door already.

7. Consider holiday temporary or volunteer work. Employed people are more employable. Stay in the game. Get noticed. Once you are connected, your confidence will rise, and confident people are more likeable. You will have something new to add to your resume, and the extra cash of a temporary job can't hurt.

8. Exercise. It relieves stress and keeps the endorphins flowing. Take the stairs. Park furthest from the door. Get out of your head and into your hands (hobbies, activities) and feet! And while you are taking good care of yourself, limit caffeine, sugar and alcohol. They will let you down as fast as they take you up.

9. Laugh. Look for the humor in your situation; don't take life so seriously. Surround yourself with people and things that make you laugh.

10. Nurture the child inside you. Do things that make you feel good. Acknowledge any negative feelings and thoughts you may have and then let them go. Rediscover the joy of the season.

Norine Dagliano is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and Outplacement Professional with more than 18 years of experience helping individuals find employment and better manage their career.