Turkey comas and hangovers are no excuse for halting your job search over the holidays, says the owner of a Calgary staffing agency.

The economic downturn and mass layoffs mean many Calgarians are looking for work, but Susan Kandalaft with Executive Solutions says she's having a hard time getting out-of-work clients to pick up the phone this week.

"Everybody is in a bit of a brain fog and barely functioning," said Kandalaft. "I think it's an overdose of food and alcohol and the Christmas lazy spirit."

The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers estimates more than 40,000 jobs were lost in Canada's oil-and-gas industry this year, mostly in Alberta.

Though temporary work placements are down between 50 to 70 per cent, Kandalaft says there are a surprising number of employers hiring for permanent jobs.

One of Executive Solutions' clients was on second interviews on Monday for a permanent job.

"Although people are desperate to work... people are just checking out this week," she said. "Employers are still hiring, still looking for people regardless of the time of year."

Several companies have posted permanent positions in the last couple weeks, but Kandalaft says there are some candidates who haven't returned her calls.

"Ninety-five per cent of the people are checking out, so why don't you be one of the five per cent that's still looking and you'll have a better chance."

Productivity down

Amy McAllister works at the University of Lethbridge and says her motivation before Christmas is much worse than after (Stephanie Wiebe/CBC)

For those who do have employment, workers who are in the office between Christmas and the new year may be physically present, but are often checked-out mentally.

A report published in the Wall Street Journal shows productivity over the holidays plummets, particularly among those under 30.

"As a young person, being hungover and working is totally fine," said Amy McAllister who works at the University of Lethbridge sports stadium and coffee shop.

"We can pull through. It doesn't hurt as bad."

Though nearly 60 per cent of respondents say they'll be working this week, more than 20 per cent report they'll be unproductive.

ACAD instructor Mark Clintberg says he doesn't take many days off, including weekends, throughout the year, so even though he's been slacking a bit, it's guilt free.

"I'm still working because I'm getting ready to teach some courses, although I haven't done anything today," he said with a laugh.