How many times have you come up with an idea or task and decided to wait until “after the New Year” to address it? This time of year, most people think they should put things off until after Christmas because people are on vacation and they think it will be harder to accomplish. But what better time is there than the present? That motto is especially true if you’re looking for a new job. Many of the “gatekeepers” who protect higher ups are out of the office now, taking vacation. So many executives are working and accessible. Now is a great time to be noticed and get your foot in the door. It may sound odd, but often people who go against the grain accomplish exactly what they want. Contact the people who are decision makers, and your chances of getting a job are much better. Many of the ads listed on Web sites or in newspapers are already “wired,” meaning the company knows who will be hired. They’ve most likely already tapped someone in the company. They are just following required procedures involving discrimination before they hire that person.