"Strike while the iron is hot" is an appropriate proverb for the summertime job-seeker. Christmas and New Year celebrations tend to put us in a relaxing, social mood rather than in serious job-hunting mode. This is the perfect time to ramp up your job search activities while your competitors are taking it easy. That's right, there's no rest for the wicked!

The summer break is an excellent time to develop and create new contacts for your job search or career transition. Many companies are completing their budget planning for the next year. This is often the best time to approach hiring managers to create a position for you next year. Many managers have to fill openings early in the year or they may lose the budget for that position. Also, once end of year bonuses are paid, a predictable percentage of employees will leave their jobs which creates new opportunities. Some effective strategies for the summer break job search:

1. NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Leading up to Christmas, there are plenty of chances for making new contacts and solidifying current acquaintances. Most professional organisations have an end of year party for their December meeting. The informal atmosphere is a good conduit for putting yourself out there. But don't bring a resume to these events. Create a simple, tasteful business card with your name, phone number and e-mail address. Be prepared to make interesting small talk to establish new contacts. Ask the people you meet about themselves, their work and their interests.

2. CONVERSATION ENTRIES AND EXITS

Before a social or networking event, prepare at least three neutral questions you can ask, such as:
* How do you know the host/the company?

* What made you decide to come to this event?

* What other organisations in this industry do you belong to? When you find it's time to move on and talk with someone new, you'll need some phrases to help you mingle widely during the event. Here are some good exit lines:

* I'll let you go now, so you can continue mingling with other guests.

* I'll stop monopolising your time so you can meet other guests.

* It was great talking to you. I'll be in touch.

3. SEND GREETING CARDS

Be pro-active and send seasonal cards to everyone on your "career list" including employment agencies, Human Resource professionals and hiring managers with whom you have had contact over the past year. Don't mention your job search in the card. Send your cards early enough for people to remember to invite you to their end of year celebrations. Ensure you include your contact information with the card so the recipient can also reach you.

4. GET CONNECTED

The fastest and most effective strategy for receiving help is "give to receive". Ask the people in your network if you can be of help to them in any way or if there is anyone who they might like an introduction to. Use your connections to become connected!

5. LET OPPORTUNITY KNOCK

During the summer break, some job-seekers become cynical during about his perceived obstacle to their career transition. Don't fall into this trap. Be pro-active at the exact time when others are stalling until late January. Think and speak positively and opportunity will come knocking, opening the door to attract, interview and hire your next employer.

If you're currently in career transition or looking to move up within your organisation, these strategies should give you a new perspective on the festive season. Instead of taking a holiday from your career development activities, take full advantage of this overlooked opportunity to make real progress in your search!