Is it a good idea to look for a job during the summer? Is it better to wait until after school or in the fall? These are very pertinent questions, often asked by candidates. Popular thinking would have us wait and postpone our plans to look for a new position until after the summer break. However, while this may seem logical, waiting may cause you to miss out on some great opportunities. Let’s analyze this together.
Jobs go unfilled
There is a preconceived notion that employers don’t hire during the summer. Or that they only hire seasonally. But this is not necessarily the case. For example, let’s say an employee leaves his or her position, whether it’s due to sick leave, maternity leave or voluntary departure. The employer will then be obliged to replace the employee. This situation can occur at any time. Or, let’s say a company sees a significant increase in sales and needs to hire more people. These are common circumstances. In 2022, even more so, in the current labor shortage environment, bosses are actively looking for employees 365 days a year. So don’t hesitate to apply.
Less competition in the job market
It is important to know that many candidates stop sending their resumes during the summer. Hiring processes are slower than usual because recruiters take vacations during this period. As a result, many become discouraged in their job search. But for you, this is a great advantage. The job market becomes less competitive and you increase your chances of getting the job you want. It is also worth noting that recruiters are rarely on vacation all summer. The recruitment process never stops. Plus, since most jobs are now posted online, you’ll see in real time when an employer is looking for staff. No need to show up in person and hope the employer is looking for employees. Now you have everything at your fingertips.
The work atmosphere is more relaxed
Did you know that starting a new job in the summer is one of the best times? It takes an average of 6 months to adjust to a position and master it. When you start during the summer, most companies are in “relaxation” mode. Summer is not the busiest time for most companies. You have the chance to start in an environment where your colleagues are less stressed and more available to help and train you. A few months of learning your job in a peaceful atmosphere is a good start.
Recruiting doesn’t stop
During the summer season, recruiters have fewer mandates to fill. They have more time to prepare their fall hires. It is not uncommon to see job openings in mid-July that will need to be filled in early September or later. The positions to be filled may be maternity leaves, for example, or simply hiring additional staff for a busier season. The earlier you apply, the more opportunities you have to secure a position in advance.
In conclusion, there is no right or wrong time to apply. You simply need to understand the different nuances that each season brings and be prepared to adapt. In the summer, it is important to understand that recruiters are not necessarily in a hurry to hire, but this brings another facet. Not being stressed, they are more willing to answer your questions and help you. Or, in the summer, job offers may not be immediate, but it gives you the opportunity to find a job after your vacation. This in itself is not bad. Keep in mind that there is no written rule. You can just as easily find a job to fill quickly.
Our advice, if you feel the need to change jobs, don’t stop your search during the summer. Plan a regular schedule for yourself, 5 to 15 minutes a day is enough time to look at the different options available to you. There are great opportunities out there.