One // I second all of the ideas in this PRSSA Progressions post from 2011. For tips on how to create your own business cards, check out how I made mine in October.
Two // Winter break is the perfect time to schedule informational interviews. Last year, I knew I wanted to intern in Chicago and was lucky enough to live near the city to do informational interviews over the break. Identify some agencies or companies you would like to learn more about. Once you have this list, try to find a way to meet someone from these companies. Reach out to family or friends or check out your school's alumni directory to find connections. Ask your contact if they are able to meet for about 20 minutes to grab a cup of coffee and chat. Informational interviews are great opportunities to learn if an agency is a good fit and hear about the work they do. Plus, when it comes to hiring, having a connection always helps you stand out from the pack!
Three // Just like your family sends out Christmas cards each year, the holidays are a perfect time to follow up with professionals. Drop your past intern supervisor a short note about what you've been up to and wish her a happy holidays. Sending a hand-written note will show that you care and this is also a perfect opportunity to remind her that you are looking for a job in May. This ensures you are still on her radar but in a subtle, just-thinking-of-you way. For the perfect cards, check out my post on professional stationery options.
Four // I'm a super-nerd and over Thanksgiving I created an Excel spreadsheet of all of the agencies I want to apply along with their application deadlines and the materials I have to submit. This helps keep me organized when it comes time to actually apply in January and February. Making an application checklist now will help you stay focused on what you need to accomplish while keeping you mindful of due-dates! I also included a column for contacts at the agency that I might want to alert when my application is submitted. That way your connection knows to look for your name in the stack of hundreds of applicants.
Five // It seems that all I've been doing lately is updating my resume. Winter break is the perfect time to put the finishing touches on your resume so that it is ready to be sent out at the drop of a hat. If you already have some agencies in mind, you might want to tailor each resume for that particular agency. For instance, some agencies run their resumes through a machine that searches for specific keywords. To ensure your resume gets to the next level, use the same words from the job listing in your resume to show that you have the necessary skills to succeed at their company. If you have time, start tackling the ever-dreaded cover letters as well.
Six // Winter break can also be a good time to clean up your online presence. Create an online portfolio with relevant work samples and information about your professional experiences. Check out mine here! Start a blog about something you are passionate about to showcase your writing skills. Update your Linkedin profile with relevant experience. Google your name to make sure that only the good things come up. Clean up your Twitter account, or create a whole new account for professional purposes. These are all things employers check out during the hiring process so you want to make sure that you are putting your best foot forward before you even come in for an interview.
Seven // Make sure to save some time to have fun as well! Enjoy time with family and friends, eat lots of food and snuggle up on the couch. Rejuvenate now so that you can tackle spring semester and the ensuing job search with ease!
What will you be doing over winter break?
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