Strategies to Keep Your Job Search Active During Winter Break

The winter break can feel like a much-needed pause from the hectic pace of academic life, but if you’re still looking for an internship next summer or a full-time role upon graduation, it’s an opportunity to gain momentum while others might be slowing down. That’s right, the holidays don’t mean your career goals should hibernate—instead, you can turn this break into a productive period that propels your job search forward. Here are some strategies to help you make the most of your winter break.

Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Winter break is a great time to refresh your resume and LinkedIn profile. Highlight your most recent accomplishments, such as academic projects, part-time jobs, internships, or leadership roles in student organizations. Tailor your LinkedIn headline and summary to reflect the type of positions you're targeting. Let’s say you’re a computer science major—you might use something like this:

LinkedIn Headline:

Computer Science Major | Skilled in Python, Data Analytics, and Machine Learning | Open to Software Engineering and Date Science Internships

LinkedIn Summary:

As a computer science major with a passion for problem-solving and innovation, I specialize in Python programming, data analysis, and machine learning. During my studies, I have built predictive models and optimized workflows in various projects. I’m currently seeking internship opportunities in software engineering or data science where I can apply my technical skills to resolve complex challenges. I’m excited to connect with like-minded professionals and explore opportunities where I can make a meaningful impact.

If you’re planning to graduate in 2025 and looking for a full-time role, you’ll certainly want to mention any previous internships you completed. You can also add a “seeking opportunities” banner to your LinkedIn profile to let recruiters know that you’re actively looking, even during the holidays.

Network at Holiday Events

The festive season offers countless networking opportunities. Family gatherings, high school alumni meetups, or holiday parties can connect you with people in your desired field. Casual conversations can open doors you didn’t expect. When networking at social events, be light and casual. For instance, instead of diving right into job requests, say something like, “I’m interested in [Field] and would love to hear about your experience in the industry.”

Research Potential Employers

With fewer academic obligations, winter break gives you the time to research companies thoroughly. Identify employers in your field of interest, learn about their values and recent projects, and note application deadlines for upcoming internships or roles. Explore company websites, job boards on LinkedIn or other job search platforms, and industry-specific forums or publications. This preparation will help you craft personalized cover letters and ace your interviews.

Apply for Positions Early

The beginning of the new year often marks the start of hiring cycles for spring internships and entry-level positions. Use the break to get ahead by submitting applications early. Many hiring managers appreciate promptness, and you’re less likely to compete with a flood of other applicants if you apply before January. Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter for each role to stand out.

Learn New Skills

Use the downtime to enhance your skill set. Online platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer short courses on everything from coding to digital marketing. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning, and developing new skills will boost your confidence during your job search and on interviews. Through these learning platforms, you can gain certifications in Excel, Python, and Google Analytics, just to name a few, and those hard skills will give you a competitive edge.

Conduct Informational Interviews

Reach out to professionals in your desired field and request informational interviews. Many people are more approachable during the holidays since their workload tends to be lighter. A short virtual chat can provide valuable insights into a company or role, and it will also give you a nice opportunity to network.

To set up an informational interview, seek out professionals that you admire; whether it’s for their achievements or their experiences in the industry. Send a polite and concise email or LinkedIn message explaining why you admire their work and how their guidance would help your career. Here is an example email to help you get started:

Subject: Request for Informational Interview

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a student at [Your Current University] with an interest in [field/industry]. I came across your profile on [LinkedIn/Company Website] and was impressed by your experience in [specific role or accomplishment].

I would greatly appreciate 15-20 minutes of your time for an informational interview to learn more about your career journey and insights into [industry/role]. Your perspective would be incredibly valuable as I explore opportunities in this field.

Please let me know if you’re available for a brief chat at your convenience, and I’m happy to work around your schedule.

Thank you so much for considering my request, and I look forward to the opportunity to connect.

Best regards,

[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[LinkedIn Profile/Relevant Links]

Volunteer or Freelance

Gaining practical experience during winter break doesn’t always require landing a formal internship. Volunteering with a non-profit or freelancing on platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr can enhance your portfolio and showcase your initiative. You may also volunteer your time by using your skills to help others. For example, a graphic designer could help design a website for a local business. These experiences can also be included on your resume, and can be handy if there’s an employment gap or you don’t have a long work history.

Practice Interviewing

A great way to spend your time off is by polishing your interview skills. Mock interviews with friends, family, or your mentor can help you identify areas that need improvement. For added benefit, record your mock interviews so you can further refine your tone and body language. If you’re looking for tips to help you practice interviewing, check out our previous advice here. For a real challenge, try practicing with some of these tough interview questions.

Take Care of Yourself

Job and internship searching can be stressful, so don’t forget to give yourself time to recharge. Exercise, sleep, and spend time with family and friends to maintain your mental well-being. Remember, persistence and balance are key to a successful search.

Winter break is more than just a time to unwind, it’s a chance to get ahead in your job or internship search. Whether you’re updating your resume, networking at holiday events, or honing new skills, the effort you put in now can pay off in the form of exciting opportunities in the months ahead.