Steve Sylven

The holidays can be a time to enjoy a well-earned break until the New Year - unless you are looking for a new job. If that's the case, then it's also a great time to kick your job search into high gear.<br /><br /> <br /><br />To get a jump on the competition, Monster recommends these tips:<br /><br /> <br /><br /> Work Holiday Events - Set a goal to meet, connect with and learn from three to five people at every holiday gathering.<br /><br /> Network Purposefully - Reach out to people already in your network and those who are connected to potential employers.<br /><br /> Follow Up - Send a handwritten, personalized thank-you note to each contact you meet.<br /><br /> Keep Your Network Going - Stay in touch with your new contacts well into the New Year to strengthen those connections over time.