During the summer season, some businesses, including those with office activities, may be closed or experience a slowdown in their operations. As a result, many job seekers might be hesitant to apply for positions during this time due to perceived limitations in job opportunities. However, there are several compelling reasons why applying for a job during summer can be advantageous, and it’s a strategic move worth considering.

 6 reasons to apply during summer

Recruiters are more available

During July and August, HR managers and recruiters often experience a more manageable workload due to the seasonal slowdown in business activities. This presents a unique advantage for job seekers as recruiters have the bandwidth to dedicate more time and attention to each application to receive. With reduced competition for their attention, your resume is more likely to stand out and be thoroughly evaluated. This increased availability of recruiters means that response times to applications are typically quicker, which expedites the entire hiring process.

Imagine you are a lawyer seeking a new position. During the summer, law firms tend to experience a lull in cases and trials. Seizing this opportunity, you apply for a job in a prominent firm that piques your interest. The recruiter and the Partners, having fewer applications to review, promptly evaluates your well-crafted resume and invites you for an interview. Your proactive approach during the holiday season positions you as a motivated candidate.

It demonstrates your motivation

Applying for jobs during the summer shows your commitment and enthusiasm for finding the right career opportunity. Recruiters take note of candidates who actively pursue job opportunities during this period, recognizing their dedication to career growth.

You are an IT professional interested in working for a leading tech company. During your vacation, you continue to monitor job portals and company career pages, submitting tailored applications to suitable positions. The company’s HR manager is impressed by your dedication to finding the right role, as evidenced by your timely and well-prepared applications.

There’s less competition

While some job seekers may perceive the summer season as a suboptimal time to apply for jobs, this mindset creates a significant advantage for those who do apply! With a smaller pool of applicants, your resume and cover letter have a higher chance of being noticed and evaluated thoroughly. This reduced competition increases the probability of securing an interview and engaging in meaningful conversations with hiring managers.

If you are a private banker seeking opportunities in a highly competitive market, you could capitalize on the idea that many of your peers believe summer to be a slow hiring period and contact recruiters. The HR teams are more likely to shortlist you for an interview due to fewer competing applicants.

Time is your partner

The relaxed atmosphere of the summer months provides an excellent opportunity to invest in your professional growth. Use this time to update your application materials, including your CV, portfolio, and social media profiles. Additionally, engage in networking activities to meet your peers and expand your professional circle.

As a project manager in real estate, you recognize that summer season allows for a temporary respite from intense work-related deadlines. During this period, you focus on refining your project management skills, attending relevant events, and actively participating in online project management communities. This dedication to skill development and networking enhances your desirability as a candidate, showcasing your commitment to excellence.

Aligning with unique recruitment cycles

Certain industries have distinct hiring cycles based on their business calendar. For instance, accounting firms tend to have peak workload periods during tax season, which is typically followed by a hiring spree in te summer to bolster their teams. By aligning your job search with these unique recruitment cycles, you position yourself as an ideal candidate who understand the industry’s dynamic and specific needs.

So, as a finance professional specializing in tax accounting, applying in July or August aligns perfectly with the industry’s post-tax season recruitment phase. Your strategic approach increases the likelihood of your application being noticed and considered by accounting firms actively seeking new talent.

Personal growth and skill development

Enroll in relevant courses, workshops, or obtain certifications that enhance your skills and knowledge. This commitment to self-improvement not only demonstrates your ambition but alo highlights your ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic work environment.

Imagine you’re a software developer: you recognize the importance of staying updated with the latest technologies to stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving IT industry. You then decide to embark on a comprehensive learning journey to expand your expertise and remain competitive and appealing to potential employers. Here are some ideas: enrolling in JavaScript or cloud-based deployment training courses, contributing to open-source projects, attending meetups and workshops, and exploring new programming languages exploration like Python and Kotlin.

There is no drawback in applying during summer…

But make sure you are reachable and available.

Thanks to your smartphone and the 4G, you can stay online anywhere. Whether you are vacationing in the countryside or cruising in the Caribbean Sea, nothing prevents you from keeping a watchful eye on your emails and networks. Good surprises can be in store for you, and you may very well have to deal with recruiters. In case you are invited to an interview when you are not at home, you have the possibility to propose three options to your interviewer:

• If you are lucky enough to be able to leave your holiday location easily for a few hours or even for a day or two, your motivation for the position you are applying for will no longer be in doubt and the recruiter will appreciate your approach.

• If you are too far away, on a cruise or a long-distance hiking tour, you can explain your situation to the recruiter, and offer to make a first visual contact via Skype or WhatsApp when possible.

And be up and running in (or even before) September!