Summer Is The Time For Networking

The dog days of summer are here and with the heat and humidity, looking for a job can be a sweaty proposition. For many people, summer is the season for vacations and days spent at the beach or pool. For job seekers though, it's time to find a great summer job.



Although is more difficult to look for a traditional job during the summer, it can be a great time to look for part-time summer work and spend more time on building your network. When you think about it, with all of the parties and outdoor activities that happen in the summer, it's a great time to get outside and meet new people.



During the summer, people are outside more and they are generally happier. Also, in the summer, you can feel free to approach anyone and talk to them. It is a much more causal time than the rest of the year and it's much less likely that someone will find you pushy or rude just because you spoke to them first.



Here are a few great networking activities for summer:



Beach or community parties - I'm am lucky enough to live in a small, waterfront town. Here, the town throws several beach parties. Depending on the area you live in, it could be different events. Look through your local newspaper and online to find out when and where they are. Bring your family and have a blast. While you're there, make a point to talk to as many people as you can. Get to know them and, when you find people who have common interests, give them your email or social networking site id, or better yet, ask for theirs. If you have a smart phone, you can store the information and send them a friend request right away.



Bars and cafes - Although bars may not be the best place for networking, usually, in the summer, it's a great place to meet people. Many people head to their favorite local watering hole during the summer to cool off and have a drink. This is a great time to introduce yourself.



Summer hobbies - If you like to fish, go camping or do summer stock theater, it's a great time to network. Even if you haven't done these things in years, now is the time to start. Anytime you have a reason to get to know a small group of people, it's a networking event.



If you use your imagination, you can come up with tons of ideas for creating your own networking event. It's fun, easy and all you need to do is find one or two people who can help you further your goals and, in the meantime, you'll meet new friends, have new experiences and have a blast while looking for the job of your dreams.



What are your favorite ways to network during the summer? Please share your thoughts in the comments.