Many people put their job search on hold until September. And of course summer is the perfect time to go away and recharge your batteries.
However, if you’re serious about changing jobs, I wouldn’t recommend slacking off on your job search during the summer for several reasons. Companies are still hiring – I am working on 20 jobs right now! Most recruiters and hiring managers are still available even if they’re on vacation. And the competition isn’t as fierce.
Here are 3 tips to position yourself for success in the autumn:
- Work on your CV/resume
If you haven’t updated your resume in a long time, now it is a perfect time to do it. Writing a great resume with tangible achievements takes time. It always takes longer than you think it will, as well.
Most of the resumes I see both as a recruiter and Interview Coach don’t stand out – many resumes are very duty-oriented, and often what job seekers call ‘achievements’ are really their daily responsibilities.
You want to be able to quantify your experience as much as you can. If you’ve done something that has increased sales, or saved time/money, it is likely to impress potential employer.
Find out how to do it here.
- Improve your skills
Improving your skills or learning something new is always a good idea especially when you’re looking for a new job. Candidates investing in professional development are more attractive than those who are not.
Many cities and community colleges have summer courses. You may still have time to brush up on your Excel or presentation skills this summer.
And when you’re asked that inevitable “what is your greatest weakness?” question, you can always discuss the course you’re taking to improve yourself.
3) Get support
A lot of people I talk to are not getting enough interviews or aren’t selling their value adequately in interviews.
If you know you have skills and experience employers need and yet, you feel like you’re going round in circles – get support! Whether it is getting a new resume, working with someone to improve your presentation skills or interviewing technique, help is available. And if you need a breakthrough in your job search process, my 30-minute laser-focused ‘trouble-shooting’ session can help.
If you’ve put your job search on hold until autumn, it’s time to get going. In a few short weeks, September will be here.
Margaret Buj is an interview coach who has been helping professionals get hired, promoted and paid more for over eight years. She is also a qualified Personal Performance & Corporate and Executive Coach and can help you with developing confidence and the attitude that will make it easier for you to get any job you want. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Margaret here.
