How to keep your job search momentum during the Summer

If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to get your resume onto as many hiring platforms as you can. With most platforms, it’s as simple as creating an account and uploading your resume.

Employers and hiring managers search these sites when they have a position to fill. If you meet the criteria they’re looking for, your resume will pop up. On the flip side, when you see a job that meets your criteria, your resume is standing by. This makes it easy to apply quickly.

Where exactly should you post your resume? There are three different types of online platforms. Try to register with at least a few in each category.

Large job search platforms

Indeed, LinkedIn, Monster, and ZipRecruiter are go-to sources for hiring managers and job seekers alike. Most have some form of “easy” application. You can apply on these types of job listings without filling out a lengthy application or sending a cover letter.

Staffing agencies

Staffing agency websites usually have a place where you can register for an account and upload your resume. Agency recruiters are combing their sites daily to find matches for open positions, so it’s good to have yourself set up with at least a few of these. Look for local staffing agencies with good reviews.

Pro tip: After you register with an agency, take it one step further. Connect with recruiters at the agency via email or LinkedIn. You’re more likely to hear about open roles once you’ve connected with an individual recruiter.

Individual companies

Many large companies have a career page on their websites and allow you to upload your resume directly. You can then search for job openings within the company and opt into notifications.

Pro tip: Be selective about opting into notifications from job platforms. What looks like a good way of staying on top of the latest postings can quickly morph into an overflowing inbox.

It’s always a good time to strengthen your professional network. Try these strategies to build connections within your field.

Use LinkedIn

LinkedIn is built for professional networking. It’s the largest platform of its kind, but that’s no reason to be intimidated. You can make connections there whether you’re new to the working world, returning to the workforce after an absence, or switching careers. Try these moves to grow your network.

Send connection requests to people you already know. Include a personalized message if possible. Reconnect. Ask what they are up to and let them know you’re in the market for a new role.

• Follow leaders in your field to keep up with trends and current events in your field.
• Comment on other people’s posts. It’s a show of support and interest in their content. People appreciate getting a response to their ideas.
• Create your own posts. You don’t have to be a CEO to have something valuable to say. Be yourself and see who responds.
• Send connection requests to people within your field. It helps if you know some of the same people, but that’s not always necessary.

Attend webinars and virtual events

There are live webinars and events every day. Look for these in your LinkedIn feed and other social media accounts. Try lesser-known platforms for networking events such as The-Dots or Alignable. A quick Google search of your industry + “free webinars” will bring up many options.

You’ll meet people in your industry and other like-minded people through webinars and virtual events. There will often be an option to join a group related to the event. After the event, reach out to other attendees to keep the conversation going.

Go to in-person professional events

Nothing beats meeting face-to-face when you’re looking for a job. In-person events are a golden opportunity to make connections in your industry or broaden your horizon to other industries.

Find in-person events the same way you’d find webinars—social media, Google searches, or your existing network. Also, try local job fairs and colleges for career events.

Employers are impressed when people take the initiative for their own professional development. While you’re waiting to hear back from employers, keep learning.

Look for free or inexpensive webinars related to your field. Keep track of the webinars and courses you’ve attended. Post about them on your social media and be sure to mention them during interviews.

It’s true what they say: looking for a job is a full-time job. That means you need to give yourself regular breaks, just as you would if you were working.

Schedule breaks throughout the day to recharge your energy levels. Try the Pomodoro® Technique of working in 25-minute spurts with a 5-minute break in between.

Make a plan to take at least a few days off to take a full mental break. You’ll come back with renewed energy.

The best way to keep your momentum and your spirits going is to keep taking action. To stay positive, try these tips:

• Buddy up with another job seeker.
• Plan rewards for meeting job-search goals—number of applications sent, people you reach out to, interviews, etc.
• Practice self-care. Get enough rest, move your body, and feed your body well.

Don’t let the summer hiring slump get you down. Just because you haven’t heard back doesn’t mean people aren’t interested in you. Kristina H., a hiring manager at Fidelity Investments advises, “I know it is difficult, but be patient and keep in contact with your recruiter who can give you a sense of timing during these months.” Keep taking action—send out applications, network—and keep growing and learning.