Are you thinking of slowing down or stopping your job search activities during the holiday season? Many job seekers do. Which means better opportunities for those who do not.

Here's why:

Less competition! Jobs don't disappear during the holidays, but many job seekers do. Whether it's due to family vacations or just an attitude of "I'll relax a bit now, then double my efforts after the New Year begins," fewer people will be competing for your dream job this time of year.

New openings! Many companies interview during November and December for new positions starting at the first of the year. The hiring managers are eager to find people who will help them get off to a great start in 2006.

More networking opportunities! 'Tis the season for parties, socializing, card-sending... networking! Attend as many events as you can, and let people (even your relatives) know you're interested in finding new opportunities. Send holiday cards to people you've recently interviewed with -- even those who chose another candidate. You never know when some other opportunity might pop up and your name will pop into their head!

Seasonal work! Temporary, seasonal work opportunities increase during the holidays, when year-end workloads increase and regular employees disappear on vacation. If you're between jobs, taking temporary work can help you make ends meet. Make a great impression as a temporary worker, and you'll have an advantage if a full-time position becomes available down the road!

So do the opposite of what most job seekers do during the holiday season -- work doubly hard, and reap the rewards!