As the old dicho goes, "Camarón que se duerme, se lo lleva la corriente" (Shrimp that sleeps, the current carries it away) . . . If you don't stay alert to and act on opportunities, you will miss them.

Too many job seekers buy into the misconception companies are not recruiting and interviewing from Thanksgiving to New Years Day. Savvy careerists continue their search and compete for positions that employers need to fill by the end of the year or to be well positioned when the traditional January 2nd job market increases (and when everyone else re-starts their job search).

We recently surveyed recruiters on the value of ramping up your job search in November and December. Below are a few of their comments.

Rudy Martinez, CEO of iHispano.com, shares that from Thanksgiving until just before Christmas, you will start to see an influx of job postings. The reason behind this is that it typically takes between two and six weeks to complete the hiring process from initial interview to final offer. HR managers, who want employees in place starting the first of the year, begin the selection process now.

America Baez, a recruiter for Accenture, adds that hiring authorities who are in their offices during holidays are usually more available. They are often open to discussing career opportunities and supporting job hunters. By taking advantage of the "Holiday Spirit", smart job seekers can gain ground on their competition and be considered for more positions.

Barbara Safani, President of Career Solvers, advises if you reach out to your network now with some "best wishes" and holiday cheer, you will have a natural entrée into a job-related conversation in the New Year. By establishing and maintaining relationships during the holiday season, you increase the likelihood of making inroads with decision makers who may be hiring in 2012.

Steps You Can Take to Enhance Your Job Search Around the Holidays.

• Check current listings on general, Latino, niche, and employer job boards, refresh your resume and set up a job agent (in My Saved Searches / Email Alerts) to automatically receive new postings.

• Network at professional and personal holiday events. Check the calendars of events for Latino professionals and industry specific activities.

• Send holiday cards. They provide a natural "touch point" and an unimposing reminder to recruiters and employers with whom you have previously communicated. A snail mail card or note is not only rare these days, but demonstrates your professionalism and commitment. We recommend you err on the side of political correctness with non-religious "Happy Holidays" or   "Happy New Year" greeting cards. If you don't think they'll remember you (assume they won't), include a brief reminder of your last contact and, perhaps, a business card.

• Thank people who have been helpful in your search.

• Connect online through your professional association membership directory, iHispano, LinkedIn, Facebook, Google+ and other professional and social networking sites.

• Reestablish communication with former friends, colleagues, co-workers, clients, business contacts and others with whom you have lost touch. If you had a good relationship, you will be pleasantly surprised how well your outreach is received. Use search engines and social networks to track them down. Hopefully, you'll re-establish that relationship to the benefit of everyone.

• Be flexible because hiring managers are in and out of town and there are many holiday activities, you may have to visit a company more than once or on days you might not expect - such as during the week between Christmas and the new year. Your willingness to meet or be interviewed demonstrates a work ethic employers are looking for.

• Stays focused, set regular business hours for your search and build in some fun to maintain a healthy life balance; i.e. ¡Baile!

• Volunteer in your personal and professional communities giving back can be rewarding in many ways. You are helping others, increasing your visibility and communicating with people who might be able to help you.

• Stay upbeat, be thankful and recognize that your commitment to your career will pay off.

¡BUENA SUERTE!

Posted by Murray A. Mann and Rose Mary Bombela-Tobias

Principals, Global Diversity Solutions Group LLC and MulticulturalResumes.com

Authors, Barron’s The Complete Job Search Guide for Latinos