As summer approaches, many people feel the inclination to relax. One of the things people often relax on during the summer months is their job search. You may think that with so many people on vacation job searching isn’t worth your effort. But if this is your mindset, you couldn’t be more wrong. True, scheduling interviews and tracking down hiring managers can be somewhat of a challenge during the summer. But there are aspects to job searching in the summer that make it easier and more enjoyable. It may be the right time to find the perfect job opportunity, and the process doesn’t have to be a drag.
Advantages to Job Searching in the Summer
There are numerous advantages to job searching in the summer. Here are some you may not have considered:
1) Business slows in many industries
In many industries, there is less going on in the summer months. That means hiring managers have more time to devote to recruiting efforts. Offices tend to be quieter which can be less overwhelming when you go for interviews. And starting a job can be less stressful in the summer months. Since things are quieter, you are likely to receive more help from other staff members and have more time to adjust to your surroundings.
2) Get Ahead of the Competition
Many job seekers out there get lazy with their job searching in the summer, or are too busy with other things to give it the attention it needs. If you stay active in your job search, you could stand out more to recruiters and hiring managers. You may have better luck getting a call back from a recruiter or landing an interview at the company of your dreams during the summer months. Wait until fall, and your resume could fall to the bottom of the pile if the company’s applicant volume increases.
3) Businesses are Catering to College Graduates
Since everyone is aware of college graduation season, one of the big advantages to job searching in the summer is businesses look to fill many entry-level job openings around this time. And that doesn’t mean older or more experience job seekers aren’t fair game for those roles. While you may take a temporary step down in your career trajectory, taking an entry-level position could be a great way to finally pursue a career at the company you’ve always dreamed of.
4) More people are in the mood to network
Barbecues, beach parties, concerts, fireworks displays…the possibilities to network in the summer are endless. Use summer as an opportunity to really put yourself out there by reconnecting with old professional contacts and meeting new ones. With more hours of sunlight, warmer weather and more relaxed professionals, it’s likely there are plenty of networking events you can find near you. And if you have a networking opportunity that involves travel, this is the perfect time of year for a long car ride or airplane travel.
5) Employees on Vacation= More Job Openings
Job searching in the summer is a great opportunity to try out new positions. With employees going on vacation, many companies need coverage. Also, some companies have extra projects going on in the summer and find they are short-staffed. If you are interested in changing your career path, find a temporary position and see how you like it. If it goes well, it could turn into something permanent.
Tips for Job Searching in the Summer
Here are a couple tips for conducting a successful job search during the summertime:
- Make yourself as available as possible. With employees taking vacation, companies may have a more difficult time finding interview times that work for everyone. Be flexible, and always have your schedule on hand.
- If you currently have a job, consider using some of your vacation time for job searching. Since business may be slower at your company, it may also be easier for you to leave work early and get to interviews.
- Be patient yet persistent. It may take a while for some hiring managers to get back to you. Don’t be a pest, but keep track of the companies you sent your resume to and when you contacted them. Then follow up periodically.
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Author: Jessica Cody
Jessica Cody, a native of Fairfield County, Connecticut, has a background in online marketing and public relations. Currently, she works at VHMNetwork LLC in the role of Marketing Analyst. She is a graduate of the University of Connecticut, where she studied Journalism and Political Science. She is also an avid runner with a passion for the outdoors.
