Summer is typically the slowest time of the year to try and find a job, with most hiring happening either just before in the spring or immediately after in the fall. So if you’re looking for a job or getting ready to make a move soon, now is the best time to prepare so you’re ahead of the competition. Here are seven easy activities that can set you up for success with your job search come September.
1. Refresh Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Before you launch your job search, use this downtime to update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Ensure they reflect your latest achievements, skills, and experiences. According to a LinkedIn study, profiles with complete information receive 30% more views than incomplete profiles. This increases your chances of being noticed by recruiters when the job market picks back up post-Labour Day.
2. Network Actively
Take advantage of the longer days and beautiful weather. Summer is an excellent time to reconnect with your professional network. Networking now can lead to referrals or inside information about job openings later. Now is the time to attend industry events, webinars, or casual meet-ups. Did you know that the Canadian Career Development Foundation reported 85% of job vacancies are filled through networking? Check out this Indeed video for in depth professional networking advice.
3. Enhance Your Skills
Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to acquire new skills or certifications relevant to your field. Websites like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer a wide variety of upskilling topics. According to a 2023 WEF report, six in 10 workers will require training before 2027. Carlton University summarizes this landmark report and offers additional insight into the top ten skills needed to advance in your career.
4. Research and Set Goals
Take the time to research companies and roles that interest you. Set clear career goals and identify steps to achieve them. Setting career goals gives you focus and motivation. It allows you to measure your progress and makes you accountable for your outcomes. Goal setting is an important skill that can help you in both your personal and professional life, enabling you to make progress towards your desired outcomes and improve your overall performance. Here is a great goal-setting guide to get your started.
5. Volunteer or Freelance
Engage in volunteer work or freelance projects to gain new experiences and showcase your skills. Volunteering, in particular, can expand your network and enhance your resume. Corporation for National and Community Service report out of the UK, found applicants with volunteer experience are 27% more likely to find a job than applicants who do not volunteer. Further, Deloitte found that 81% of hiring managers believe that skilled volunteerism should be considered in a hiring decision.
6. Stay Informed
Keep up with industry news and trends. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, blogs, and podcasts. Staying informed will not only make you a more attractive candidate but also prepare you for interviews. Employers want to interview candidates that bring industry knowledge and are already familiar with the future trends and challenges facing the employer’s industry or sector.
7. Practice Self-Care
Indeed reports 1 in 4 job searchers experience stress. Whether you have a job and are looking for a move, coming back after a leave, or unemployed, in today's competitive job market, the process of searching for employment can often evoke feelings of stress and anxiety.
Use the summer to recharge and focus on your well-being. Engaging in activities like exercise, reading, or spending time with loved ones can improve your mental health and overall productivity. Navigating your job search with confidence, resilience, and optimism will ensure you are always stepping out with your best foot forward.
Conclusion
Taking proactive steps during the summer can significantly boost your job search efforts in the fall. By updating your resume, networking, enhancing your skills, and staying informed, you'll be well-prepared to hit the ground running when the hiring season begins. Remember, the effort you put in now paves the way for future success.
Need help with your resume or interviews? View our job seekers resources, subscribe to our blog or check out our job board with hundreds of open positions in Canada. We are actively interviewing and hiring job seekers. Agilus’ recruitment consultants place over 10,000 candidates yearly in temporary, permanent and contract positions. We are Canada’s largest, full service, privately-owned recruiting firm collaborating with the top employers in Canada hiring for Technology, Engineering & Technical skills and Office Professionals roles.
