How to use the holiday season to advance your career

The holiday season is often thought of as a time for gift giving, food eating and family timing, not really job searching or career advancing. And if you’re like most people, you probably have decided not to worry about your career too much until 2018.

But, before you stop thinking about your career until the new year, consider this: the holiday season may be the best time for advancing your career.

Here’s 4 reasons why and how you can use the holiday season to advance your career:

1. Networking opportunties galore

Whether it’s your own holiday party or a community networking event, there are many opportunities to connect with professionals. Use the chance to learn about what other’s are working on and share your views of the future. Networking is about building relationships, not just asking for things or exchanging business cards.

2. Good opportunity to reach out

The holidays are a great time to reconnect with old colleagues, bosses and friends. And sometimes you just need a good excuse to reach out and reconnect. Ideally, you don’t want to be asking for anything now, but sending a ‘happy holidays’ check in note makes it easier to connect in the future.

3. Thoughtful giving opportunities

Whether it’s a donation in someone’s name or a small gift to your team, giving demonstrates thoughtfulness. Volunteering your time also helps build your network and bonus will help you break into the social impact sector.

But if you don’t have time to figure out where to volunteer or give this holiday season- that’s ok. Help out a colleague- surprise them with a small act of kindness or a piece of positive feedback. Taking a little time to show that you appreciate someone’s work will likely make their day. And another bonus- being known as someone who is appreciative and helpful around the office is only a good thing (when done authentically).

4. Career goals and resolutions

The most common New Years resolutions are about losing weight or exercising. Use this time and opportunity to reflect on where you are in your career and set goals for not just the year ahead but years down the road (see how here and  why you should start thinking of end of career now).

The holidays are a great time to disconnect and take a break from work- which you should. But before you go on autopilot for the rest of the year- if you want to advance your career, consider the holidays as an opportune time.

Editor’s note: Every week we try to deliver articles and interview that will not educate and empower, but also inspire you to do good – professionally and personally. A community member has brought to our attention that this article (and title) sends the wrong message about giving- specifically only giving for the sake of getting something in return. That is not what we believe in at Bmeaningful. Living a meaningful life – both personally and professionally- can mean doing well by doing good, but your motives should be pure. Being authentic and genuine are key qualities in this sector and something that we value.  We’re sorry if that message was lost. We read every email – the good and the bad – and listen to your feedback because we value your time and support.  Thank you for caring.