The idea that companies cut back on hiring during the summer months is a myth. Here’s ten reasons why you should be turning up the heat on your job search:
1. High energy: Summer is a high energy and fun season. The sun is shining and the days are longer. Serious job hunters should capitalize on both the energy of the season and myth of the summer slowdown by beginning or continuing their search. Jobs are available and waiting for hunters to find them.
2. Less competition: Many job seekers buy into the summer slowdown myth, leaving you with more opportunities and less people to compete with.
3. Increase in contract-to-hire positions: In an effort to fill long leaves (like vacations) companies turn to this type of employment. This is a great way to get your foot in the door at a company you admire.
4. Jobs do exist: Companies still need to hire and fill vacant positions, even when it is hot outside. If you stop your job search, you could miss out on some great opportunities.
5. Shorter interview process: Although summer vacation schedules can prolong the interview process, in some instances they may actually result in an expedited process. If the schedules of all involved align, companies often speed up interviews to avoid the complexity of scheduling multiple meetings around vacations.
6. Networking: Summer is a social season with many opportunities to network in a casual, informal way. Take advantage of barbeques, fundraisers, sporting events, golf outings and other social events. Any event is an opportunity to meet new people who can help you take the next step in your career.
7. Great time for research: Workloads often slow down during the summer months, which gives you extra time to conduct in-depth research on companies, positions and industries that you’re consid
ering for your job search. You can also learn about market and hiring trends.
8. Easier interviewing: Summer schedules are often times more relaxed – think longer lunches and vacation days. This makes it easier to step out of the office for an interview. It is always best to schedule interviews when you don’t have to worry about rushing back. Rushing through an interview can be a significant distraction and adversely impact your interview performance.
9. Ample time to make a plan: Use the summer downtime to create thoughtful strategies and an actionable plan for your job search. Developing a realistic, achievable list of what you need to accomplish gives you a significant edge over the competition and especially over those who put their search on hold in the summertime.
10. Opportunity for insider perspectives: Since schedules are more open and flexible, people are likely to have more free time to meet with you for an informational one-on-one. This allows you to gain valuable insider insight into a certain company and/or role that piques your interest.
Andrea Belkin is the director of Staffing at Vaco Arizona, the local office of Vaco, a $300 million consulting and strategic solutions firm. She specializes in matching high caliber professionals with Phoenix and Tucson’s top companies.
Belkin, A. Thurs., 30, June 2016. “Are You Searching for the RIGHT Talent and Expertise?” Phoenix Business Journal. Retrieved from http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2016/06/30/ten-ways-to-stay-cool-with-the-job-hunt-this.html
