The holiday season is a time for relaxation, reflection, and reconnection—but it's also a unique opportunity to take small, impactful steps to elevate your career. Whether it's networking with family and friends, discussing your goals, or practicing your communication skills by helping relatives with tech, the holidays can be more than just a break. In this Q&A, Yi Yin and John McNally share practical tips and actionable insights on how students and young professionals can use this festive season to recharge, stay hopeful, and take meaningful steps toward their career aspirations.
Networking During Family Gatherings
Q: How can students and young professionals use family gatherings during the holidays to explore career opportunities?
Yi Yin:
Family gatherings are a great chance to casually discuss your career aspirations. You don't need to make it formal—just share updates on what you're working on or the kinds of opportunities you're looking for. Relatives and family friends might know someone in your field or have valuable advice to offer. A good way to frame it is, "I've been exploring topic X, and I'm curious if you know anyone I could talk to for insights." It's less intimidating and feels more conversational.
John McNally:
Absolutely. It's important to remember that people generally want to help. The holidays are also an ideal time to reconnect with people you haven't spoken to in a while. For example, reach out to family friends via text or call, mention you'll be in town, and ask if they're open to catching up. Even a quick coffee chat can lead to new opportunities or advice.
Overcoming Networking Shyness
Q: What advice would you give to someone who feels shy about asking family and friends for referrals or career connections?
Yi Yin:
Start small. You don't have to ask for a referral right away. Instead, share your interests and ask for advice. For instance, "I'm really interested in field X, and I'd love to hear your perspective on what skills are important." This opens the door for meaningful conversations and can naturally lead to offers of help.
John McNally:
Think of it this way: asking for connections isn't about asking for favors—it's about creating mutual opportunities. You never know who is looking for your skill set unless you ask around. Focus on how you're building a relationship, not imposing on it.
Tech Support as Skill Development
Q: How can being a "tech support" for senior relatives help students practice explaining technical concepts?
Yi Yin:
Explaining tech tools or troubleshooting devices for family members can be surprisingly valuable. It forces you to break down complex ideas into simple, relatable terms—a skill that's essential in any career. For example, helping a grandparent understand how to use video calls teaches you to empathize with the user's perspective and adjust your language.
John McNally:
Exactly. When you're explaining why a certain feature works a certain way, you're practicing communication skills that are critical for roles like customer success, product management, or even technical sales. You're learning to translate technical jargon into everyday language, which is a huge need.
Sharing Career Challenges
Q: Why is it important to openly discuss career stress and struggles with family and close friends during the holidays?
Yi Yin:
The holidays provide a rare opportunity to reconnect with people who genuinely care about you. Sharing your challenges can bring fresh perspectives and emotional support. For instance, if you're feeling stuck, a family member might offer a different angle or even remind you of strengths you've overlooked.
John McNally:
And don't underestimate the power of just venting in a supportive space. Talking about career stress can help you process your thoughts. Plus, someone might share their own similar experience, making you feel more motivated to move forward.
Small but Impactful Actions
Q: What small but impactful career actions can students and professionals take during the holiday season?
Yi Yin:
Use the downtime to update your resume or LinkedIn profile. Highlight recent projects or skills you've gained. It's also a great time to send holiday messages to mentors, colleagues, or professors, thanking them for their guidance and subtly reminding them of your career goals.
John McNally:
If you have a little more time, set up a mini-project for yourself. For example, write a blog post about a topic in your field or create a small portfolio piece. These actions not only keep your skills sharp but also give you something tangible to discuss in future interviews. Also remember to recharge your energy reserves too. You do your best work when you take care of yourself.
Career Reflection and Planning
Q: How can students and young professionals use holiday downtime to reflect on their career goals and plan for the year ahead?
Yi Yin:
Reflection is key. Ask yourself what went well this year and what didn't. Set specific, actionable goals for the next year—for example, "I want to attend two networking events and complete one certification by June." Write these down and revisit them regularly.
John McNally:
I like using a framework like the SMART goal method: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based. Break bigger goals into smaller steps. For instance, if your goal is to pivot into a new field, identify one or two skills you can develop over the holidays to start that transition.
Staying Hopeful During the Holidays
Q: What message would you share with someone feeling stuck or unsure about their next career steps during the holiday season?
Yi Yin:
The holidays are a reminder to pause and recharge. It's okay to not have everything figured out. Use this time to focus on small wins—even updating your resume or reconnecting with a mentor can spark progress. Stay hopeful; careers evolve over time, not overnight.
John McNally:
I'd add that being stuck is often a signal to try something new. Use this season to explore—whether it's a new skill, an inspiring book, or a conversation with someone outside your usual circle. Small actions can lead to big breakthroughs.
Remember: The holiday season is not just about taking a break—it's an opportunity to reflect, connect, and take small steps toward your career goals. Use this time wisely, but also remember to recharge and enjoy the company of loved ones.