Do you know how to make the most of your time while looking for a job? Experts are offering this advice: you should plan your search to take advantage of the best hunting seasons for job seekers!
According to this report in Forbes, everyone should expect some down time during the seasons that people are most commonly heading out for vacation or on holiday.
“It may depend on your specific industry or job, but the summer and the winter holiday season tend to be the slowest for hiring.”
Beyond the time of year, the key factor in the timing of a job search has to do with what stage of life you’re in. Try not to look for a job during a major life change – such as a divorce, or if you’re having health issues – or even just before a planned vacation.
If you’re already employed, you might also want to wait to start your job search until that major project at work is completed. You don’t want to short change your current employer and run the risk of burning any bridges. Also, you’ll want to keep your stress levels low in order to be able to put forth your best effort to make a good impression.
What are the prime times to look for a job? The best advice is still the common sense wisdom that you want to start your search before you really need to.
Beyond that, data collected by job search engine SimplyHired.com shows that spring might be the very best time to look for for non-seasonal employment, according to this report in Main Street news online.
“Less seasonal industries tend to be most aggressive in hiring in the first half of the year. By June, you usually start to see job openings drop off,” said Carolyn Hughes, vice president of people at SimplyHired.com.
However, the numbers also shows a trend toward increased job opportunities at the end of the year in the government and nonprofit sectors due to budget cycles.
But regardless of the time of year, you don’t have to wait to start doing your homework on the industry and companies you’d most like to work for.
Networking is also a four-season job hunt activity! It’s always the right time to cultivate a mentor, or have lunch with a former colleague, hiring manager or recruiter.
The best place to start that research or conduct your search any time of year is Market Street Talent. Check out the job listings and get an idea of what’s open in your area of expertise!