ClearRock

BOSTON - August 13, 2009 - Job-seekers cannot afford to take a summertime break during the most competitive employment market in the last 26 years.  Searching for a job in summer offers some advantages for those who do not take time off, according to ClearRock, an executive coaching and outplacement firm headquartered in Boston.

"In a tough job market, you need to capitalize on every edge you can get, especially over those who are taking off for the summer, and those who aren't as actively looking until the economy gets better," said Annie Stevens, managing partner for ClearRock.

With companies in some sectors recently offering improved future outlooks, including technology, financial, and manufacturing businesses, more employers may be poised for hiring later this year, added Greg Gostanian, managing partner with ClearRock.  "Some employers, such as those in marketing, public relations, and information technology, also tend to be among the earliest to hire as companies prepare for improved business from the recovery," added Gostanian.

Job-seekers can realize the following benefits by actively continuing their searches during the summer:

- Be optimally positioned to capitalize on the economic recovery. "Some companies have new fiscal years that began in July, and have already budgeted for additional positions.  The interview process for many of these jobs begins during the summer, and it's important to get out in front of these potential employers as soon as you can," said Stevens.

- It may be easier to arrange networking meetings during the summer. "Face-to-face networking remains the most effective search method, accounting for more than 70 percent of jobs, and is the best way to uncover the 80 percent of openings that are never advertised," said Gostanian.  "You may find it easier to network with people who were too busy earlier in the year."

- Employers may be more willing to give informational interviews during the summer. "You may be more successful in getting informational interviews during the summer with the types of companies you want to work for.  Realize that the informational interview may not result in a job, but can lead to new contacts who can bring you closer to your targeted position," said Stevens.

- Use the summer to line up contract assignments. "You may be able to get freelance and contract work from companies that are experiencing improved business, but are not ready to hire employees.  The freelance and contract work may lead to a position later, as well as enable you to test whether you want to start your own business or consulting practice in that field," said Gostanian.

- Improve your references during the summer so you have superb contacts to provide to potential employers. "Before giving prospective employers your references, ask them specifically what they will say about you.  Some references may not be as articulate or as glowing in their comments as you may want them to be, and the summer is a good time to determine which ones would be most beneficial toward finalizing a job," said Gostanian.

- Summertime activities present additional networking opportunities.  "Picnics, barbecues, and beach parties are excellent summertime networking opportunities.  Network with people you meet while on vacation, and people you socialize with at your regular summertime destinations.  Plan your vacation around potential places to which you may want to relocate, get a better feel for these areas, and network with people during these trips," said Stevens.