Job Search Doldrums

It's hot today everywhere. You expect 100+ degree weather in July in the southern states and out west but it's hitting triple digits in Wisconsin and North Dakota today. Ironically, this midsummer weather has an effect on job search. Usually at this time of year, the job market gets a little sluggish. The hiring process slows down somewhat; people go on vacation; budgets are put on hold pending the end of the quarter. It's not unusual.

I had to go to a regular, weekly organization meeting today around lunch and I noticed that attendance was down considerably. Networking can become slow and more difficult at this time of the year simply because people are out of town or can't stand the thought of leaving the AC to go to meetings. It's hard to connect with people if they aren't around!

Don't be discouraged in your job search at this time of the year. Things will start to pick back up soon (especially once kids start school) and the speed of the process will start increasing. The average job search takes 12 weeks at the best of times so don't start losing heart.

Now is a great time to hide out near the cool air vent and review your job search plan. Do some follow up communication with recruiters and with hiring managers from whom you haven't had a response. Review your resume to make sure it is top-notch and is a useful tool and not a detriment to your job search. Make sure you have an updated resume version on the online sites. Use the time you have now to redouble your efforts and regroup so when everyone gets back from vacation in a few weeks, you are ready to roll!

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