“I spent Christmas & New Year unemployed. It’s the first week of January, the market feels quiet, and I’m feeling anxious. Is this normal? What can I do to improve my chances?”
I've been asked this question a few times this week already.
Yes, it’s normal—but success in job seeking (just like in sales) comes down to one thing....
Even when the job market seems quiet, you can take charge by creating your own opportunities. The secret? Activity...and lots of it. Constant activity will lead you to chances you can’t see yet—but if you have no activity, you’re standing still and lengthening your time in the unemployment line.
Trust me - this is important.
Conversations. They can lead you to chances you can’t see yet—but if you have no conversations, you’re standing still.
Here’s a case in point:
Just before Christmas, one of my CareerAGILITY coaching clients lost his job.
Rather than being negative, he took the bull by the horns and got active.
They sent “Merry Christmas” messages to their network, reconnected with old colleagues and even made a few calls to check in and chat about the year ahead.
By the time January rolled around, they already have several opportunities brewing (literally!). What started as casual conversations turned into leads, referrals and potential opportunities—all because they got active, even during a quiet period.
Here’s what you can do right now to follow their lead:
1️⃣ Raise your profile on LinkedIn:
Post an update, share an article, comment on posts or engage with industry discussions to make yourself visible.
2️⃣ Reconnect with your network:
Send messages to wish contacts a great start to 2025, and ask how their Christmas break went. People appreciate a thoughtful check-in.
3️⃣ Call people:
Whether it’s calling an old colleague or introducing yourself to someone new, every conversation has the potential to open a door.
4️⃣ Stay consistently active:
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—keep creating them. The more active you are, the more chances you have to be in the right place at the right time.
And here’s the bonus: activity doesn’t just create opportunities; it reduces anxiety. When you’re actively reaching out, learning and connecting, you can feel in control of your journey.
So, if you’re starting the new year feeling stuck or unsure, I encourage you to pick one action today—a message, a call, or a LinkedIn post—and begin the conversation - begin your 2025 success journey.
What’s your first move for 2025? Let’s share ideas and support each other to make this year a success.
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