By Sunny Simon
If you are currently in a job search don’t let the rising temps slow you down. Often job seekers mistakenly think recruiting action screeches to a halt from June through August due to the vacation schedules of hiring managers and HR staff. Not so. In the corporate world, there is no such thing as a summer escape season. While employees do take time off to travel and enjoy the sultry weather, not everyone is breaking out the sunscreen and heading off to the beach.
Now is the perfect time to turn the heat up on the search for your dream job. Often when companies are successful during the first six months of the year, purse strings loosen and job requisitions get the green light. Consequently recruiting is in full-swing and HR is on the lookout for new talent. Granted, scheduling interviews may have to be put off for a few days if a key player is off enjoying a family outing at Disneyland. Bear in mind, many employees do not vacation for more than a week at a time especially if there is a vital slot on the organization chart that needs filling.
Another reason to avoid the urge to postpone your search is the shrinking labor pool. You can count on some of your complacent competitors waiting until September to look for work. By working diligently on your search while others are up at the lake casting off, you could be reeling in your next job opportunity.
Summer is a social season. Take advantage of the pool parties, picnics and family reunions to network. Have your elevator speech ready when your brother-in-law introduces you to his boss or when your second cousin tells you about the great start-up venture that employs her. Tap into the brain trust of friends and family to get suggestions on companies that might be looking for new talent. Make sure to follow up on any leads given when attending these social activities. Invite your new friends to connect with you on LinkedIn and be sure to send a thank you to anyone instrumental in introducing you to individuals with promising connections.
Use your time wisely. Schedule in several hours a day to send out resumes and learn more about organizations on your target list. Beat the heat by attending job fairs and networking events in cool air conditioned facilities. By staying focused on your job search and taking full advantage of the season, you could be signing an offer letter before Labor Day.
Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching. More about Sunny at www.raisethebarhigh.com
