How job hunters can make the most of the summer break - 2022 update

It's time for my annual article to help jobseekers make the most of the summer break.

There is always mixed opinion about whether the summer is a great time to continue your job hunt or a lousy time. I opt for the "great time" as the pace of life, particularly during August, can highlight a number of opportunities.

Read on for some hints on how to make the most of this time.

Take some time off

Many people refer to looking for a job as a full time job in itself and I have to agree.?Why then, should?you?not take some time off to refresh and recharge just like everyone else? Productivity and performance start with free time, which is the fuel for the energy, creativity and focus that lead to success.?Burn out exists for everyone, those working and those who are actively looking for work.?

If money is tighter than normal, you may consider a different type of break than you would have taken in the past; it may be one week rather than two or a ‘staycation' rather than a trip overseas (especially with the nightmare that are UK airports right now!). ?Agree a budget with your family/partner and take a break?from the day to day routine.?A change of scene can put distance between you and your situation which can fire the imagination and spark a change in approach.?

The important thing here is to give yourself permission. Approach this break just as you would time off from a ‘normal job', set the out of office on your email and update your voicemail to indicate you are away (or checking it in the evening if you are really concerned about missing that call).?Job hunting can be addictive, there is always the imperative to complete “just one more” job application.?Agree a time with yourself when you will be back in the driving seat, relax and enjoy the time off.

If you don't want to spend any money, why not become a tourist in your own town?? I live in London and found?this article?that provides inspiration for 200 things to do in London that won't cost you a penny, I’m sure there is something similar near where you live.

Get clear and get current

It's time for a clean up. Update your job application tracker, chase applications for roles if you like, otherwise remove them from the list, all they do is take up head space.

If you would like to get your hand on my free tracker document, you can download it here.

Review Your Performance

Are you happy with all elements of your job search? How well is your CV performing? Take a look at my eBook, "How to Write Your Best Ever CV" this shows you how to write one "Master Copy" of your CV that you can then update for each opportunity in less than 15 minutes.

What about your LinkedIn profile? This is your calling card, you shop window. Is it getting you noticed for the opportunities that you want to get noticed for? Does it reflect your current skills and experience? Are the right type of people connecting with you? What about your content? Is it time to finally write that article that could help to showcase your expertise? If you think it is time for a LinkedIn Profile Review, then why not book a 60 Minute Turbo Call and I can audit it with you live (you can even keep the recording to rewatch at your leisure).

Review your interview technique. Is your CV getting you in front of the hiring manager, yet you keep getting "pipped at the post" by another candidate. It's time for you to brush up on those STAR stories and prepare a response to those challenging interview questions. You've guessed it, I have an eBook that you can download to help you with just that.

Navigate the "Blank Space"

• Do some thinking around the bigger picture. Has your job search been sidetracked or veered away from your original objective? Are you ok with where it is going? Do you need to course correct to get it back on track? If so, now is the time to reconnect with the types of roles and organisations where you are a perfect match.
• Deal with those niggling jobs around the house that you have been putting off, you won't have the opportunity to do this once you start working.
• Be kind to your future self. Take some time out to refresh and recharge, you will then be ready to tackle the job market with renewed vigour.
• Learn something. There are so many free webinars and courses available now, this is a perfect opportunity to brush up your current skills or to learn something completely new.
• Create a bucket list of things to do. Make a list of all the places you want to visit, the shows that you want to see and start to do some research. This will give you something to look forward to when you do get that job.

#interviews #preparation #jobhunting #cv

Jane began training as a coach with Ashridge Business School in 2011, while working as an HR Business Partner at British Airways. She works with senior leaders who are leaving their business through redundancy and is generally engaged by HR Directors who want to do the right thing by their people.

She also works with 1:1 clients who come to her directly.

If you think that Jane can help, please send her a direct message here on LinkedIN and let's see if we are a good fit.