Ok its great weather the sun is shinning we want to get out in the sun and enjoy it. But suppose we have to find a job at the same time. While summer is traditionally viewed as a ‘slow’ time to do job hunting it does not mean nothing is happening. People are hiring and you don’t want to miss the boat if you are looking for a new job.
Here are the top six rules for summer job hunting:
1. Do not take the summer off! It might be tempting to leave the summer months for enjoyment but it is a big mistake. Do it now while there is less competition and you have the opportunity to get your job search started.
2. What happens in the summer months? People tend to be more outgoing and gregarious. Do not miss out on opportunities to build your network. BBQ’s social events, sports days are all opportunities to meet others who you might be able to help and who might help you.
3. You might even consider doing more entertaining yourself. Invite people who you think will know others. It does not have to be lavish but if you put yourself out there more there is a good chance that something will come of it.
4. Don’t be afraid of asking for contacts and help. There is so much movement in the job market now there is no shame in asking for help. Remember the key rule of networking – that givers get. So try and find things to do for others so they, in turn will help you.
5. People go on holiday in summer, so there might be a chance to do a summer internship or temporary placement. This will both give you something to put on your CV, get some income (hopefully) and get you back in the world of work. Also it mean that a ‘gatekeeper’ who had blocked you in the past might not be there which is a great opportunity to contact a particular individual. It sometimes takes longer for people to get back to you in summer. Do not be too downhearted if you don’t get an instant response. Be determined to get a response though and send out gentle reminders.
6. Use the summer time to get healthy. If you were avoiding exercise or dieting before now is the ideal time to make a change. By putting yourself in good shape you are investing in your most important asset – yourself!