Best Time to Network During Winter Break
I’m an international student at a NYC target school, trying to figure out the best time to network over the winter break. I know many professionals will likely be unavailable at least between December 24 and January 1, but I’m wondering if it’s worth reaching out in the weeks before or after that.
I’m also thinking about traveling back to my home country (mid-to-late December through mid January). If I go, I plan to focus on improving my behavioral and technical interview skills while I’m at home.
My main question is: should I stay in NYC and try to network before or after the holidays, or is it better to focus on interview prep instead because response rates will be low?
I’d really appreciate any advice. Thanks!
Reach out a week or two before the holidays. Some people will still be at their desk during the 24-31st but won't be as busy as usual. Networking is a great timekiller that technically counts as a work activity. And then politely follow up with the people who didn't reply first week of Jan.
Thank you very much for your guidance. I also wonder when to pause attempting to network with new professionals. Should I stop after the first round of interviews or not until I receive the offer?
Also, would it be feasible to return home (outside of the United States) during winter break and propose zoom calls instead of phone calls, or would this approach irritate people?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Timing Around the Holidays: Professionals are generally less responsive between December 24 and January 1 due to holiday commitments. However, the weeks before (early-to-mid December) and after (early January) can be productive for networking. Many professionals return to work in early January and may have lighter schedules as they ease back into the year.
Networking Strategy: If you're staying in NYC, focus on reaching out in early December and again in early January. Use the holiday period itself to draft personalized follow-up emails or prepare for upcoming conversations. Monday mornings and Fridays are often good times to reach out, as professionals may have more downtime during these periods.
Balancing Networking and Prep: If you decide to travel home, prioritize improving your behavioral and technical interview skills. This is a valuable use of your time, especially if response rates are lower during the holidays. However, you can still send out emails and schedule calls for when you're back in NYC or for early January.
Key Consideration: If you're targeting NYC-based roles, staying in the city could give you an edge. Being available for in-person coffee chats or networking events can make a stronger impression. If you do travel, ensure you have a plan to maintain momentum with virtual networking.
Ultimately, a hybrid approach might work best: network actively before and after the holidays while using the quieter period to sharpen your interview skills. For more tips, check out this WSO thread: url: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/networking-101-8-tips-….
Sources: Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Post-MBA Recruiting At Top Asset Managers / LOs, 5 Rules of Getting a Job from a Non-Target School, Don't Throw Away Your Shot - Networking with Senior Professionals as an MBA
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