Finding a Summer Job - For Grown Ups

When most of us think about finding a summer job, we picture teens and college students applying for jobs at the mall or at amusement parks. However, for those who are trying to change careers, the summer is a great time to start. Especially for adult education students who just finished their additional certification courses or who have finally earned an advanced degree, the summer offers the perfect opportunity to get a head start on the competition and to network with others in their desired industry.

Teens know that the summertime is a great time to find a job, but even grown-ups can get in on the act. Here are a few ways adults can enjoy the nice weather and start a new career:

Contrary to popular belief, companies are still hiring. Depending on the industry, many companies have their slow time during the summer. This means that they are more likely to be assessing any staff shortages and trying to find new employees. For example, fields like education typically hire during the spring and summer. However, even if your industry is busier during the summer, they are likely to still be looking for additional staff to keep up with the demand.

You can get a jump on the competition. Many people believe that no one hires during the summer, so they wait until the fall to begin looking for new jobs. Typically, when school starts up again, people start thinking about changing careers. By sending out resumes now, you can get a head start and get a jump on the competition.

Take advantage of networking opportunities. The summertime provides, by far, the absolute best networking opportunities of the year. People are out and trying to have fun, making them much more likely to spend time with people they may not know well. From conversations at the local bar to your uncle's or cousin's cook out, there are so many opportunities to catch up with extended family and friends. As an added bonus, everyone is typically in a happy mood and more willing to help or to introduce you to someone they know. It's sort of like the winter holidays, minus the pressure and fruitcake.

Temp-to-perm positions are hot during the warm months. The industries that have busier times during the summer often hire new employees in temporary positions, with the chance of being offered a full-time job in the fall. This is a great chance to get your foot in the door and make a great impression.

Remember to have fun! The summer is the time for relaxing and having fun. Don't spend all of your time focused on finding a new career. Set aside time each day to work on your career goals, but don't forget to plan time to just have fun. Not only does it keep you relaxed, it can be the key to finding a great job. You can never predict who you might meet on vacation, at the beach or at a town celebration. Sometimes the most amazing things happen and you can run into someone who knows someone who has a job opening that is exactly what you've been looking for. Stranger things have happened.

Do you plan to continue looking for a new job this summer? Why or why not? Please share your thoughts in the comments.

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