7 Hottest Reasons to Explore New Work Options this Summer!

1)??? It’s Easier to Take Time off & Much Less Visible.

Most people take vacations or at least some long weekends in Summer. This is equally true for Passive Candidates, Job Seekers and also Hiring Teams and Managers. Leaving early, coming in a bit later or taking summer days off are also common so do not raise suspicion.

2)??? You’re more relaxed and work is less busy.

We are all more relaxed and less intensely work focused in Summer due to many factors:? Longer, warmer days with more sunlight, work being less busy, other people taking vacations who return more relaxed, schools being closed, the peace that comes from ocean or beach getaways, and more.? In addition, after a refreshing and, perhaps, reflective vacation, we often feel calmer, more “de-compressed” and open to possibilities.

3)??? Your clothing will work to your comfort and advantage.

Fact is that most of us feel more comfortable in lighter, summer clothing. It’s liberating to shed the restrictive layers associated with late fall and winter. You also won’t need a full suit or tie so this offers a sense of “normalcy” which supports your free expression through your talks & meetings (both sides – you and the Hiring Manager or Interviewers).

4)??? Less Competition: More Visibility to Hiring Managers who are less busy

In my 25+ years interviewing professionals, most put off interviewing until Fall. However, being one of far fewer Candidates exploring options (or interviewing) can help you stand out to Hiring Teams who are also more relaxed and less stressed. Additionally, far fewer Hiring Teams require multiple meetings to present an offer in Summer given all of the above factors as well as slimmer Candidate and job pools.

5)??? It’s easier to sustain a longer-term job exploration or search through the Summer and defer a start date until Fall. You can accept, then relax and enjoy the rest of your Summer!

Job searching can take a while and, for many, it starts by simply exploring your options. Often, less pressure to “find the right role” enables you to find an ideal “match” faster. With the increased feeling of well-being that comes with summertime (extra sunlight, more freedom and time off or outside, and less pressure), you could find and be hired for your best choice quickly, set a Fall start date and just enjoy the rest of your Summer. Conversely, if a job search isn’t yielding results right away, it won’t have the same emotional toll because you’re also less likely to isolate yourself. Having a great network of friends and family to keep your spirits up, and meeting for walks, happy hours or other outdoor activities (like beach days or mini golf) can serve as fun distractions and nurturing recharges.

6)??? This is a great Opportunity to Lead your Children/ Family by Example with a Fall Fresh Start!

When my daughter was going off to college, I had been working for nearly 10 years in my Corporate Director job. I realized that it was not the same company anymore and that I could help her and myself at the same time to make big scary transitions. I personally used that Summer to switch industries and try a 3-month contract doing something very different which was far more exciting and an opportunity to move my career in a new direction! That Summer became a vital boost for both Cara and me in personal "stretches", career growth and also our relationship!

7)??? No waiting for Bonus Payouts: Few companies pay bonuses in Fall.

Waiting for bonuses that you’ve “already earned” is a common reason people say they need to postpone job moves. However, most companies pay bonuses by Spring and are not likely to pay until either late Fall or end year. Therefore, there are no earned bonuses to await.

For all these reasons, there is no better time than Summer to explore possibilities and find yourself a WARM welcome at a new opportunity to grow!