Summer can be challenging. The ever changing temperature, humidity and realization that we Minnesotans really only have three months weeks to enjoy it. What adds to the strife and struggle are complex schedules, holiday weekends and a possible tumultuous family reunion where uncle Stan wants to interrogate the job status, goals and life plan of all his 17 nephews and nieces. Whether or not you are Stan’s nephew or niece, re-evaluating your career path shouldn’t be put on hold during the summer months, in fact it may be the best time to turn up the heat.
Employers tend to relax schedules during summer months and are far more lenient with vacation. Most people want to enjoy the sunshine and in many places this increases productivity as well as the mood throughout the office. Companies don’t just hire at a specific time each year, positions open up all the time and new positions can be created at the drop of a hat.
While the thought of sitting at your computer, searching online for a new job is not the most exciting when sun, lakes and golf courses are calling out, why not take the job search with you? Invite a contact to lunch outside, network on the links with fellow enthusiasts in your foursome and inquire to what your softball, volleyball and other team members and competitors do in their professional lives. With the sun shining, a relaxed atmosphere is created and what better conversation starter to use than… “How ‘bout this weather?”
Here are a few important items to consider for your summer job search:
Be consistent.
Take your search with you.
Use your kids.
Be realistic.
It takes time.
The summer passes by quickly, be sure to take the time for family and friends but to also review those goals or life plans made this past January. It is never too late to start over or to embark on a new challenge.
