Are you stilling looking for a new job, or have you just been laid off and are starting your job search during the holiday season? Many people I talk to think they need to put their search on hold during the holidays and start up again in mid-January.

I want to encourage you to keep your search going through the next month. Many companies have positions that need to be filled by the end of the year, or they will lose the headcount for those positions. Hiring Managers are aware of this, and will continue the recruiting process through the holidays, so you need also to continue your search.

I know you might be burnt out and frustrated at this point in the year, but just taking small steps each day can get you closer to that dream job you have been wanting.

The tips below will help you stay on track with your search and also allow you time enjoy the holidays with your friends and family.

Here are 5 easy steps to keep up your job search during the holiday season:

1. Take advantage of the time you are spending at holiday gatherings to network.

Your job search during the holidays can be a topic of conversation during those holiday get togethers. Let the people you are mingling with know that you are looking for your next opportunity. You never know who might be at your child’s school event or your neighborhood party.

2. Be flexible with your schedule.

If you are contacted for an interview, be flexible with your schedule to speak or meet with the company. Since it most likely is a busy time for them, they may require you to come in multiple days to interview or take a call on a weekend.

3. Update your LinkedIn profile to show that you are looking for a new job.

Many Recruiters are starting to work on the positions they need to fill during the first quarter of 2016. During the month of December, they are reviewing LinkedIn profiles and gathering a list of people to contact right after the first of the year.  You want to be at the top of their list when they start reaching out to candidates, so don’t put your job search on hold and wait until January to update your LinkedIn profile

4. Keep up your informational interviews and conversations.

The holiday season is a great time to catch up on the year and talk about what you interested in doing next year. Continue to reach out to the people in your network for lunch or coffee dates.

[RELATED: 5 Steps to an Informational Interview]

5. Set up alerts to show you when new jobs are open.

Save time in front of the computer, by setting up alerts on job boards like Indeed.com. Many companies have their own alert email system, so if you are targeting any specific companies make sure to include them in your alert list.

How are you going to job search during the holidays? Let us know in the comments below!