When it comes to your job search, summer doesn’t have to mean “slow.” Your time and effort can reap big rewards – and even land you the job of your dreams by fall. Remember, if you decide to take the summer off, you’ll be competing against candidates who take the same approach come September.
Debunk the Myth
Despite what you may think, it’s business as usual for most companies during the summer. Granted, it may take a little longer to get an internal consensus on a new hire due to vacations, but summertime can actually offer advantages to job hunters. For starters, it often gives hiring managers more “brain space” so they can pay more attention to resumes and job applications.
- Summer may be prime hiring season for some employers. Many projects hit the ground running in the fall, and companies want to have their teams in place.
Tips for Success
To keep your job search moving during the summer:
- Capitalize on seasonal events. Summer is a great time to network. Festivals, parties, weddings, graduations and other social gatherings are perfect times to connect with people. Use these opportunities to let others know you are looking.
- Don’t get discouraged. Summer vacations may make it a bit more challenging to reach decision makers, but be patient and consistent. Leave polite messages and continue due diligence. Even if you slow the pace a bit, block out periods of time to devote exclusively to your job search and stay focused. Then, you can go soak up the rays!
- Reassess your resume and skil Review your resume, cover letter and portfolio, and add any new skills, training and/or accomplishments. Consider taking a class or two. Not only will you enhance your qualifications, you also can network with your classmates.
- Pitch for internships. Many companies offer “summer help” or internship programs to take advantage of the off-season and fill vacancies created by full-time employees who are on vacation. Tap into these as a means of getting your foot in the door.
- Make the best of your vacation time. If you’re trying to find a new job while holding your current one, consider taking a few days off to conduct a wholehearted search. Of course, you can do this any time during the year, but it may be more feasible during the summer if your seasonal workload is lighter.
- Summer offers a variety of events, from community clean-ups to fun runs and walks. Volunteering your services is an excellent way to boost your resume, meet people and even get involved with a nonprofit organization that can offer you an employment opportunity.
At PrideStaff Fresno, we’re passionate about helping you increase your opportunities and find a great job – temporary or fulltime – within our extensive client network. We’ll help ensure your search is successful, in any season. Read our related posts or contact us today for more information.