Conventional wisdom dictates that you slow down your job search during the summer months, as everyone moves into vacation mode. But in reality, the opposite may be true. With patience, persistence and the right strategy, your June-through-August search efforts can reap major rewards, including a possible new role for you by the time autumn rolls around.
Don’t take a vacation from job hunting.
As noted by life coach and author Laura Berman Fortgang, summer may be a prime time to land your next career opportunity. “Few people take long vacations anymore, so for the corporate world, it’s business as usual in the summer. Why waste three months when you can move things forward during that time?”
- In many cases, major projects hit the ground running in the fall. So employers want all the right people in place, making summer months an excellent time to interview and hire. And summer’s quieter pace gives managers more “brain space” so they can be more attentive to applicants.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that many people do tend to ease off on job hunting in the summer. Keep this under your hat … and take advantage of this fact by intensifying your search during a time when there may be less competition for the job you’re seeking.
Build your credentials and bolster your resume.
Use the summer months to enhance your qualifications and to reflect your best self by fine-tuning your resume.
- Consider going back to school. Unemployment is lowest among those with more advanced degrees. Complete whatever coursework is necessary to make yourself more marketable. If you already have a degree, work on keeping your most important job skills fresh.
- Every relevant experience counts. Look into volunteering or interning. Even if the work is unpaid, it will help reveal your potential to a prospective employer. If you’re interested in working for a non-profit, start out by volunteering for them. If you want to join a corporation, see if they support any charities and get involved. This will make your application stand out and give you a strong interview discussion point.
Capitalize on seasonal networking opportunities.
During the summer, work all your personal and online connections – and their contacts.
- Create a circle of influence. Start with a blank piece of paper and write your name in the center. The people closest to you – family and good friends – are in your first circle. Go beyond that to the second ring, which may include colleagues and associates. Your outer circle is every person you come into contact with on a regular basis. Every single ring around you is an untapped network.
- Leverage your circle on LinkedIn and Facebook. Make sure your profiles are professional and up to date.
- Get out there and work the room. Summer is a busy season for festivals, barbecues, weddings, graduations and other social gatherings. It’s a perfect time to reconnect with people. Use these opportunities to let them know you’re looking.
A professional recruiter can be an invaluable asset in your career search toolbox as you make the effort to intensify your job search this summer. Read our related resources for job seekers or contact the expert team of recruiters at PrideStaff Modesto to learn more.
