Trying to Find a New Job in August: The Ideal Time to Plan, Network, and Prepare for Your Next Career Move

August – a month often linked with relaxation, vacations, and a slower pace of work. It can seem an unlikely time to delve into a new job search. As a legal recruiter with years of experience under my belt, I often hear the misconceptions around this time. "Too many decision-makers are on vacation," they say, or "there's no point in job hunting now." Allow me to play the contrarian, and posit that, in fact, August could be the perfect month for career advancement in the legal profession.

The August Conundrum

With decision-makers often on leave and businesses in general 'slowing down,' it might seem a Sisyphean task to actively job hunt. However, let's remember the famous words of Abraham Lincoln, a lawyer himself: "Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe." To reframe our thinking, August is the month to 'sharpen our axes,' laying groundwork for future success.

Understanding the Hiring Cycle

Typically, companies undergo peak hiring times in the first and last quarters of the year. August is often quieter, with decision-makers taking their summer breaks. This should not be perceived as a barrier, but an opportunity. Use this time to meticulously plan your approach, create connections, and enhance your network. By the time hiring season swings back around, you'll be positioned to make a powerful, unforgettable impression.

Planning: The Cornerstone of Your Job Search

Start by planning. Every successful job hunt begins with a strategic approach, an understanding of your career objectives, and your value proposition in the job market. Without the pressure of immediate responses, you can invest time into crafting compelling application materials.

Self-Reflection and Career

Goals

"Lawyers spend a great deal of their time shovelling smoke." This quip from renowned attorney Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. underscores the often vague and nebulous nature of our profession. However, when it comes to career advancement, clarity is crucial. Use this quieter period for introspection: Where do you want your career to head? What are your long-term goals?

Resume and Cover Letter Refinement

A compelling resume and cover letter can make all the difference in securing an interview. Analyse your current documents critically. Are they clear and concise? Do they reflect your skills accurately? Do they showcase your accomplishments and demonstrate your value proposition? Remember, you are more than just your work experience; you bring unique skills and perspectives that can benefit your future employer.

Building Connections: Networking as a Strategy

Networking is an essential aspect of the legal profession. In the words of J. P. Morgan, "A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason." The 'real reason' to use August to its fullest potential is to network strategically, meeting contacts that could lead to your next career opportunity.

Informational Interviews

Identify key figures within your field of interest who are active during this period. Reach out for informational interviews – these can provide invaluable insight into roles, firms, and industry trends. In the process, you'll build relationships that may prove beneficial when job opportunities arise.

Networking Events and Conferences

August is a popular month for industry events and conferences. Participate actively, engage with peers, share ideas and forge relationships. The connections made during these events often lead to job opportunities in the future.

Online Networking

The digital world offers unlimited opportunities to engage with peers and industry leaders. Be active on LinkedIn, participate in relevant discussion forums, and follow key industry influencers.

Showcasing Your Brand: Become a Thought Leader

Thought leadership is a crucial aspect of personal branding and career progression. Showcase your expertise, insights, and ideas to gain recognition and respect in your field. As lawyer Clarence Darrow once said, "The only real lawyers are trial lawyers, and trial lawyers try cases to juries."

Write and Share Content

Consider authoring articles or blog posts on relevant legal topics to exhibit your understanding and perspective. Sharing these on platforms such as LinkedIn or Medium will not only demonstrate your expertise, but also your ability to articulate complex ideas.

Speak at Events

Conferences and webinars present a unique opportunity to share your knowledge. Offering to speak at such events can significantly boost your personal brand and professional reputation.

Participate in Discussions

Participating in online forums and discussions helps you to stay updated on industry trends. Additionally, your contributions to these discussions can highlight your problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.

Patience is a Virtue: Embrace the Slow Pace

It's natural to feel impatient or anxious when job hunting. But remember, as renowned lawyer and U.S. President Barack Obama once said, "The only thing that is the end of the world is the end of the world." Job hunting in August can be slow, but this pace provides the breathing room necessary for thoughtful planning and strategy.

Focus on Personal Development

Take this time to expand your skillset or deepen your industry knowledge. Whether it's a certification course or a series of educational webinars, continual learning will not only enhance your skills, but also make you a more attractive candidate.

Foster Well-being

Amid the hustle of job hunting, don't forget the importance of maintaining a balance. Use this quieter period to focus on well-being. Remember, a healthy mind and body will improve your job search performance when the busy hiring season returns.

Conclusion: Use August to Your Advantage

Yes, August can be quiet. Yes, the hiring process may be slower. But remember - this month is a golden opportunity for thorough planning, networking, and personal branding. It's the time to sharpen your axe, ready for the vigorous chopping when hiring season swings around.

Looking for tailored career advice or tips on navigating the legal job market? Feel free to get in touch with me at [email protected]. I invite you to sign up for my newsletter at www.tattonsheikh.com for more insightful articles and tips that I do not share online. I'm here to support you in leveraging this unique time to your advantage, helping you stride forward in your legal career. After all, as the formidable lawyer Louis Nizer once said, "A man who works with his hands is a labourer; a man who works with his hands and his brain is a craftsman; but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist." Let's create artistry in your career progression together.