You have been looking for a job for a few weeks now and feel that things are slowing down on the eve of the summer season? You should know that this slowdown may be temporary, since the positions to be filled do not disappear, only to reappear in September!
It’s true that for several years the usual recruitment cycle included a very strong fall season, a quieter period during December and January, followed by a marked recovery from February to mid-June. Finally, during the summer months, it is true that recruitment slowed, and this period was more difficult for job searchers. However, this cycle has not been as pronounced in recent years.
Positions become available throughout the year, and it is true that as vacancies approach, many professionals who had begun to think about a potential career transition decide to leave for another position, sometimes allowing themselves to plan their vacancies between the end of their job and the start of their next professional challenge. This opens an unexpected opportunity.
It is understood that sometimes recruitment processes during the summer stretch a bit more because the main stakeholders may be on vacation and therefore this may delay the steps but the stakes in our organizations are too pressing to voluntarily wait until the fall to address them.
Therefore your job search does not take a break: every month is conducive to the emergence of positions to be filled.
A strategic job search
We can never say it enough: it is crucial that you are strategic in your job search. Take the time to browse the different job sites, executive search sites, and sites of companies you are interested in.
Take the opportunity to update your profiles such as Linkedin. Is your information up to date? Is it easy to reach you? If an employer notices your profile, they will want quick access to your information (cell phone, email).
Also review your resume. Beyond a careful layout, it may be useful to remove anything that makes the document heavy and does not add value. It is useful to have it read by someone who is not familiar with your background. This will help you focus on the essentials and highlight the achievements that are easiest to understand. It will also help validate whether the terms you borrow are consistent and are understood by people who may not have your specialty or expertise. There are also sometimes names of titles that are very organization/industry specific, for you it seems clear but find the equivalent of your title on the market so that you can increase your ability to properly promote your career path through your resume.
It is all a question of measure
Many job seekers have questions about what to wear to an interview. Remember that you only get one chance to make a good impression. It’s true that summer is the time for lighter clothes and the famous sandals (for both men and women). The rule of thumb remains the same: you are being called for an interview, not for a chat at the beach! Avoid revealing clothing and opt for a neat and sophisticated look.
The job market is overheating
It’s always frustrating to look for a job when you know your value but you’re faced with a job market that complains about talent scarcity. Stay positive: every interview is an opportunity to present your career path and meet decision-makers. They should interview several candidates before making a decision. And sometimes the process stretches. All the more reason to reread your resume according to the position you were called for. During the interview, keep in mind different concrete examples that prove you have the expertise that the employer is looking for. In a clear and concise manner, you will help them understand what sets you apart and, most importantly, that you could not only fill the position quickly but also be functional in the very short term.