Don't take a summer vacation from your job search. Learn how to capitalize on the season to land your dream job.

Over the summer, most job seekers take a vacation from their job search. That's exactly why it's the perfect time for you to heat up your job-search efforts – you'll have less competition.

I recently spoke with KTVU's Ken Wayne about how to capitalize on the summertime to advance your job search. Click on the image below to watch a recording of the interview.

Give these five simple tips a try to ensure you're set up for success by September.

Get “resume-ready.”

Studies have shown the average recruiter only spends six seconds looking at your resume to decide if you're a fit for the job. You're 40% more likely to land the job you want with a professionally written resume. You can start with a free resume evaluation from companies like TopResume.

Perfect your personal brand.

Make a list of all the social media channels on which you've created a profile. If you plan to use it for personal purposes, increase the security settings so no recruiter will find it. If it's for professional use, make sure it's current and in alignment with your resume. For more help, click on the following link to download my free personal branding checklist.

Party with a purpose.

Summer is all about BBQs, baseball games, and beach parties – every single one of these events is an opportunity to network. Keep your business cards on you at all times, and practice your elevator pitch with everyone you meet.

Take it to-go.

The job search is a full-time job. Luckily, we live in a time when it's possible to work from practically everywhere, including the beach, if we're armed with our smartphones. Download apps that will help you manage your network, access your resume, and review potential job opportunities while on-the-go.

Quench their thirst.

A lot of people take time off during the summer. But, for those who are in the office, their workloads tend to be lighter. If you know someone who works at a company or in an industry that's of interest to you, this is the perfect time to have an informational interview to pick their brain. For a couple of bucks, you can gain invaluable information for your job search. Just don't forget to send a thank-you afterwards!

Use these five tips now so you can truly enjoy the lazy days of summer next year.

Want to see how your resume stacks up? Try out our free critique today!

Related Articles: