A JOB SEARCH THIS HOLIDAY SEASON COULD GIVE MORE REASONS TO CELEBRATE

DBM offers advice for a successful job search this season

New York, NY (PRWEB) December 4, 2003 - DBM, a global human resources consulting firm, and part of The Thomson Corporation (TSX: TOC; NYSE: TOC), advises job seekers to use the holiday season to refocus a job search and maximize networking opportunities.

A career change is traumatic, regardless of whether it is personally initiated or thrust upon you," said Tom Silveri, President, DBM. It's especially difficult during the holidays, when financial and personal issues can compound the stress associated with a transition. However, we find that the holiday season can benefit a job search since work schedules generally relax, making it easier to get meetings. This, in addition to the positive economic forecasts surrounding the employment market, could give job seekers an edge this season in securing re-employment."

In a recent survey, DBM found the average job search is taking between four and six months. Although the time to re-employment is still lengthy, indicators are that the job market is slowly, but steadily improving -- making this holiday season an important time to aggressively pursue networking and job interview opportunities.

Benefits of a job search during the holiday season:
·   Some corporate departments feel pressure to fill openings before the first of the year in order to secure remaining budget and headcount allocation.
·   Theres generally less competition as many others have taken a job search hiatus during the holidays.
·   Laying the groundwork now can help secure a job during the prime hiring months directly following the New Year.
·   Short-term seasonal jobs could be a foot in the door for a longer-term opportunity.

If youre in the midst of a transition, below are four tips on how to revitalize your search through this holiday season.

Tips to Jump-Start Your Holiday Job Search:
1. Get control - Set a timeline and action plan and stick with it, despite the typically hectic holiday season. It's important to stay focused on your job search while still finding time to enjoy the festivities.

2. Maintain your mental and physical health -- Commit to a balance and enjoy the positive aspects of the holidays. If you dont have a career transition/outplacement consultant, select a mentor to whom you can report progress at a regularly scheduled time and build a support system. Keep family and friends involved in your search during the season.

3. Take care of details - Committing time to your job search can be difficult during the holidays, but it's one of the most important aspects of staying focused; create a space that is dedicated to your search (home office, computer area, the library, etc.).

4. Continue to build your network - Networking is one of the most important aspects of a job search, so don't let sporadic holiday schedules keep you from making and keeping networking meetings. In fact, holiday get-togethers are great opportunities to meet people who may end up being the key to your next job!    

About DBM
DBM (www.dbm.com) is the worlds leading provider of strategic human resource solutions that helps organizations align their workforce to meet changing business needs. Known for over 35 years for its innovative and effective career transition services, DBM offers in-depth capabilities in employee transition, retention, development, and selection. Founded in 1967, the company has more than 230 locations in 51 countries.

DBM is part of the Thomson Corporation (www.thomson.com), a $7.8 billion global leader that provides integrated information solutions to business and professional customers. The Corporations common shares are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges (TSX: TOC; NYSE: TOC).
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