Job searching during the summer months

For many people, summer is a time to switch off. Holidays are booked, the children are off school and thoughts naturally turn to making the most of the longer days. 

It's also the time of year when many job seekers pause their search, assuming employers will wait until September to recruit. 

From our experience, that's simply not the case. 

Many businesses continue recruiting throughout July and August. In fact, some are working even harder to fill vacancies while existing employees are on annual leave or to prepare for a busy autumn. 

If you're considering a move, summer could be one of the best times to find your next opportunity. 

Recruitment Doesn't Stop for Summer 

While some organisations may slow down slightly, recruitment certainly doesn't come to a standstill. 

Businesses still need to replace employees who have left, cover increased workloads and bring in additional support during busy periods. Others use the quieter summer months to recruit before business picks up again in September. 

We've helped candidates secure new roles throughout the summer because they kept applying while others assumed nothing was happening. 

Sometimes, there can even be less competition for vacancies because fewer people are actively looking. 

Don't Wait Until September 

It's easy to think: 

"I'll start looking once everyone's back from holiday." 

The problem is that by September, you're competing with everyone else who had the same idea. 

Applying during July and August could mean: 

• Less competition for some vacancies  

• More time for employers to review applications  

• The chance to secure interviews before the autumn recruitment rush  

• Starting a new role before the end of the year  

Momentum matters. Even if you don't secure your ideal role immediately, you'll already be on recruiters' radar. 

Be Open About Your Holiday Plans 

One question we often get asked is: 

"Should I apply if I've got a holiday booked?" 

Absolutely. 

A pre-booked holiday is completely normal and shouldn't stop you applying. 

The important thing is to communicate openly. 

Let recruiters know if you'll be away and when you'll be available for interviews. Most employers are happy to work around a week's holiday if they know about it in advance. 

Honesty and good communication leave a much better impression than cancelling interviews at the last minute. 

Keep Your Job Search Moving 

Even if you're taking a break, there are small things you can do to keep your job search moving forward. 

Use some quieter time to: 

• Update your CV with your latest achievements  

• Refresh your LinkedIn profile  

• Set up job alerts  

• Research companies you'd like to work for  

• Connect with recruiters in your sector  

• Think about what you really want from your next role  

A few hours now could save you weeks later. 

Be Flexible With Interviews 

Summer often means hiring managers are taking annual leave too. 

Interview dates may take a little longer to arrange or need to be moved around. 

If you're able to offer a little flexibility with your availability, it can help keep the recruitment process moving and demonstrates a positive attitude from the start. 

Temporary Opportunities Can Open Permanent Doors 

Summer also brings an increase in temporary and fixed-term opportunities. 

Don't dismiss them too quickly. 

Temporary roles can: 

• Keep your skills current  

• Introduce you to new industries  

• Expand your professional network  

• Provide valuable experience  

• Lead to permanent positions  

Many employers use temporary contracts as a way of finding people they'd like to keep long term. 

Final Thoughts 

Don't assume your job search has to wait until the summer is over. 

Recruitment continues throughout July and August, and employers are still looking for great people. 

By staying active, communicating clearly and keeping an open mind, you could find yourself starting a new role while others are still waiting for September to arrive. 

Summer is a great time to enjoy a well-earned break, but it doesn't have to mean putting your career on hold. 

Looking for your next opportunity? We'd love to help. Whether you're actively searching or just thinking about your next move, get in touch with the team at Key Appointments.