Why Summer is the Best Time to Apply for Jobs

Why Summer is the Best Time to Apply for Jobs

The best time to apply for jobs is not, as most people would assume, at the beginning of the year. Although the season of New Year’s resolutions may make it tempting to view January as the best time for a fresh start, recruiters say otherwise. Contrary to popular perception, if you’re looking to increase your odds of securing that all-important interview, the best time to apply for jobs might actually be summer. Yep, you read that right. In this article, we're breaking down four reasons why summer is the best time to apply for jobs and snag that dream position you've been eyeing.

1. Less competition

With everyone else and their dog choosing January as the month to start their career afresh, summer candidates are a lot fewer and further between. “What most candidates don’t realise” says experienced Technical and Engineering recruiter Julia Sherlock “is how much thinner the competition is throughout summer! Businesses still need new roles filling, but they often just don’t have the applicants.”

Think about it: with a lot of families away, companies need to ensure they're fully staffed to keep operations running smoothly and there aren't as many applicants available. That means opportunities galore for the savvy job seeker.

2. Netwalking

When the colder months roll around, it can seem like a mammoth task persuading your nearest and dearest to leave the house, let alone a prospective professional connection! With the sun out until late, people are often in a far more sociable mood in the summer and will accept any excuse to meet for a few cheeky iced teas after work. Why not take advantage of the summer vibes and reach out to business connections who can help you advance your career? You never know where it might lead…

An alternative way to network in the summer is netwalking (no I haven't spelt networking wrong). This trend is growing and Small Business Britain runs events up and down the country in association with BT. Netwalking gives you the chance to talk to other business professionals away from an office environment. No need to worry about delivering a one-minute pitch to introduce yourself, all talks will be relaxed and natural while you walk in the countryside.

3. For many industries, business is booming!

Looking to gain experience in a new field? Summer might just be the time to take on a temporary contract and branch out into new areas. Some industries are crying out for staff at this time of the year as it is their busiest period. This includes Food & Beverage, Aviation/Aerospace and Pharmaceutical. Businesses also need help behind the scenes with Admin Staff, Food Production Operatives, CNC Machinists, Welders, Electrical Engineers and other skilled staff also being in high demand.

Check out our temporary roles

4. A Positive Mindset Boosts Your Odds

Studies show that people are happier in the summer months, thanks to common doses of sunlight and more time spent outdoors. Harness this positivity to your advantage when job hunting. After all, a hiring manager is more likely to remember someone who brought a breath of fresh air and a big smile to the interview room. With less competition and more time on your hands, summer may just be the best time of the year to apply for that new job you’ve been eyeing!

If you need any more reason to get going, it may be worth taking into account that at the beginning of this year job vacancies fell and unemployment figures rose to 4.3%

Ready to take advantage of the summer lull? Have a look at our latest vacancies or call one of our experienced consultants on 01376 502999 or 01284 413456