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w/photo: Holidays Can Bring Jobseekers More Than Just Stress

B Y K AAREN V ALENTA

If you think the holidays are stressful, imagine what it is like to be

unemployed, conducting a job search, and still trying to enjoy the season.

Holiday parties used to be the nightmare of out-of-work executives, but times

have changed, according to Bill Brimmer.

Mr Brimmer, a Newtown resident who works for the outplacement firm, Drake Beam

Morin of Stamford, has organized the Jobseekers Support Group, which meets

monthly at the St Rose Church parish center. At the December meeting, he

talked about how jobseekers can reduce holiday stress.

"It's not a stigma anymore to be out of work," he said. "Everyone knows

someone in that position. In the past few years, downsizing has become such a

regular occurence in corporate America that the social stigma of being out of

a job has largely disappeared."

And contrary to what is commonly thought, Christmas is a good time to look for

a job.

"My boss in human resources started his new job on December 23 - it does

happen," Mr Brimmer said. "Remember, people are in the holiday spirit and you

may get that phone call through at this time of the year. Most business

executives also spend a lot of time in the office, rather than traveling, and

are easier to reach."

Go to holiday parties not only to have a good time but also to make contacts,

Mr Brimmer said. Holiday parties provide an exellent chance to network, meet

new contacts, and learn about companies and industries in an informal, social

setting. Don't hide the fact that you are actively looking for a job, but

don't act desperate.

If possible, find out in advance who is going to be at the party. This may

help you target specific people whom you want to touch base with. Otherwise,

try early in your converstaions to find out what people do for a living, and

also ask about about hobbies and other shared interests.

Ask for business cards. Don't hand out resumes. Remember you are at a holiday

party - no bitterness, anger, regret or accusations at your former employer

(these expressions are death in any interveiw and will do more harm than good

at a social party, too.)

Mr Brimmer said the holidays also are a good time for a self-awareness

checkup.

"If you are feeling stressed out, think about what is causing it," he said.

"If you have one very good friend to talk with about the situation, it can

help a lot to rejuvenate you."

Don't eliminate temporary jobs from consideration as you search for a full

time job.

"Forty to 45 percent of temporary jobs go on to full time employment, so don't

overlook temporary agencies in your job search," Mr Brimmer said.

Don't use the holidays as an excuse to eat too much. Remember to eat healthy

and exercise. You'll not only feel better but you'll look better too, which is

important when you are interviewing for a job.

Consciously try to relax and reflect.

"Reflect on the fact that the new year could be a new start," Mr Brimmer said.

"Unless you go through something in life that really hurts you, you may never

wake up to learn that you have to take the time to really enjoy it, to smell

the roses."

The next Jobseekers Support Group meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 14,

at 7:30 pm, in the second-floor conference room at the parish center. Anyone

who is looking for work or contemplating a job change is invited to attend.

The guest speaker for the January meeting will be Jan Dyer, a human resources

executive with Black & Decker. She will speak on what the human resources

professional is looking for in a job candidate.