Summer Job Search Tip #1: Don't Take a Summer Vacation From Your Job Search

TORONTO, June 14, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - When it comes to your summer job search, the warm weather doesn't have to mean slowing down or taking a break from your task, according to Randstad Canada, the country's leader for staffing, recruitment and HR Services, you should use the summer months to find your ideal career fit.

Stacy Parker, Executive Vice President of Randstad Canada says jobseekers should resist the temptation to take the summer off from job searching. "The summer season can be a prime hiring time for some employers. Many projects gear up in the fall, and employers want new people in place. If you mistakenly assume no one is hiring, you might miss out on the perfect time to position yourself for a great job opportunity, before the competition spikes in the fall. It's the perfect time to get your foot in the door," she says.

Parker offers these tips to help you keep your search moving forward in the summer:

• Refresh your resume and skills: Summer is the perfect time to assess and improve your resume and skills. It's important to make your skills and talents stand out from the rest of the applicant pool. In order to maximize the opportunity getting hired, you should update your resume with relevant accomplishments, new job duties, recently achieved certifications, and other similar achievements.
  
  
• Build your network at summer events: Summer is also a great time to network - use personal and social gatherings to introduce yourself to new people. Festivals, barbeques, weddings and other gatherings can provide the opportunity to make valuable connections that could lead to future employment.
  
  
• Keep track of your active job search: Keeping track of the applications you've made will make it easier for you to do timely follow-ups, ensure you don't apply for the same position more than once.
  
  
• Consider a recruitment agency: Recruiters and hiring authorities are not "out of the office" over the summer. We have many job opportunities with Canada's leading employers and we are always on the lookout for the right candidates to fill these roles.
  
  
• Remain positive: You may apply to and interview with many companies before you find the right fit. But rememember, you are meeting new people in every interview and networking event you attend. Even if you don't end up working for their companies, the connections could lead to valuable, career-enhancing connections in the future.

According to Parker, jobseekers should use the summer to refresh and recharge their job search. "Stay focused, set daily agendas, review your career goals, and don't get discouraged," she adds. "But don't forget to reward yourself, too. Once you've met your daily goals, give yourself permission to take the rest of the day or the weekends off from your summer job search. The time and effort you invest now can reap big rewards and even land you a new job before the fall."

About Randstad Canada: Randstad Canada is the Canadian leader for staffing, recruitment and HR Services. As the only fully integrated staffing company in the country, we understand the recruitment needs and demands of employers and job seekers across all levels and industries. Through our insightful knowledge of local markets, employment trends and global network of recruitment experts, we are shaping the Canadian world of work. Visit randstad.ca