The holiday season often feels like an unconventional time to search for a job. Many assume that companies slow down their hiring efforts as the year winds down, focusing instead on wrapping up budgets and planning for the next year. While there is some truth to this, what most people overlook is that the holidays can present unique opportunities for job seekers, especially in specialized fields like building automation, security systems, and fire safety. With fewer applicants in the mix and the chance to network during festive events, you might find this to be one of the best times to advance your career.
Why the Holidays Offer an Advantage
As a seasoned professional, you know that the demand for skilled workers doesn’t always follow a predictable calendar. Facilities still need to function smoothly, systems still require upgrades, and compliance deadlines don’t pause for holiday breaks. In fact, hiring managers often feel the pressure to fill roles before the new fiscal year begins. This means that there’s less competition during this time—many job seekers take a break from their search—which gives your application a higher chance of standing out.
For example, companies that manage building automation systems often plan updates or retrofits during the quieter end-of-year period, making it a prime time for technicians or engineers with expertise in controls and programming. Similarly, security operations teams may be working to implement new measures before holiday closures, and fire safety managers may be focused on inspections or certifications to meet January compliance requirements. By positioning yourself as the solution to their time-sensitive needs, you could uncover hidden opportunities that wouldn’t have been available at other times of the year.
Networking in the Spirit of the Season
The holidays are naturally social, which makes them a great time to expand your professional network. Industry events, end-of-year meetings, and even informal gatherings offer the chance to connect with colleagues, hiring managers, and potential mentors in a more relaxed setting.
If you’re attending a holiday industry meetup or company open house, come prepared. Bring business cards or have a polished LinkedIn profile ready to share. More importantly, approach these events as opportunities to build relationships, not just hand out resumes. Conversations about shared challenges—like troubleshooting BAS systems, integrating newer technologies into older infrastructures, or managing tight project deadlines—can leave a lasting impression and open doors later.
Even if you don’t attend in-person events, online platforms like LinkedIn remain powerful tools during this time. Many people update their profiles at year-end, reflecting on career achievements or setting goals for the new year. This is your cue to engage thoughtfully. Congratulate someone on a promotion, share an interesting article, or post about a recent project you’re proud of—actions like these keep your name visible within your network.
Keeping Your Professional Materials Current
While you may have years of experience under your belt, even the most seasoned professionals can benefit from a fresh perspective on their resume or portfolio. Take the time to reflect on what you’ve achieved this year. Did you implement a system upgrade that saved energy or reduced downtime? Did you lead a project that finished ahead of schedule? Specific, measurable accomplishments resonate with hiring managers and demonstrate the tangible value you bring to a team.
Your LinkedIn profile should also be more than a digital resume. Use it to showcase your technical skills, certifications, and industry knowledge. Consider writing a short post or article that highlights your expertise, whether it’s a guide to preparing HVAC systems for the winter or insights into navigating regulatory changes in fire safety. Personal branding like this helps establish you as an authority in your field and can attract the right kind of attention.
The Value of Building Skills During the Holidays
Even if job offers aren’t pouring in right away, the holidays are a great time to invest in your professional growth. Consider enrolling in an online course or pursuing certifications that align with industry trends. For building automation professionals, platform-specific training like Johnson Controls or Siemens systems can set you apart. Security operations managers might explore certifications in project management or advanced access control technology. Fire safety professionals could focus on obtaining NICET credentials or staying ahead of regulatory changes in their state.
Adding new skills not only enhances your resume but also keeps you motivated. It shows potential employers that you’re proactive and continuously improving, even during quieter periods.
Maintaining Momentum
Staying motivated during the holidays can be challenging. The festive season is full of distractions, and it’s tempting to put your job search on hold until January. However, consistency is key. Set realistic goals, such as applying for a certain number of jobs each week or reaching out to a specific number of contacts. Create a daily routine that balances your search efforts with time for rest and reflection. Remember, every small step you take now sets you up for success in the new year.
Following Up Is Critical
If there’s one thing to prioritize during holiday job searching, it’s following up. Hiring managers and recruiters may be juggling year-end tasks, and a friendly reminder can ensure your application doesn’t get lost in the shuffle. Use the holidays as a reason to reconnect. A simple email wishing someone happy holidays, paired with a gentle inquiry about a role you applied for, can go a long way in keeping your name top of mind.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are a season of opportunities disguised as downtime. By staying active in your job search, focusing on networking, and polishing your professional presence, you can position yourself as a standout candidate when competition is low. Whether you’re troubleshooting complex building systems, managing large-scale security projects, or ensuring fire safety compliance, your skills are in demand—even during the festive season.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career but want expert guidance, the team at Network Mountain is here to help. As specialists in Electrical Engineering and MEP-related recruiting, we connect professionals like you with roles that match your expertise and career goals. Let us help you make the most of this holiday season—and find the position you’ve been waiting for. Reach out today to get started!