Many job-seekers incorrectly assume that summer is a bad time to look for a job, putting it off until the fall, but in fact the "fallow" summer months are one of the best times to track down your dream job.
Research by consultancy Right Management has concluded that the notion that the vast majority of people are away on vacation during the summer months is a myth.
Most people in fact are only allotted a few weeks of vacation time and for the rest of the time conduct business as usual, gearing up for the busy fall and winter – so opening up opportunities for the canny job seeker.
"If a company has an immediate need for someone, they'll fill the position now instead of waiting until the fall," said Eileen Javers, global leader of Right Management's transition practice.
"Procrastination can cause job-seekers to miss out on these prospective jobs, as well as in being ahead of the rest to be considered for interviews in the fall," she added.
Job-hunters may also find it easier to arrange networking meetings during the slower business climate.
"More than 70 per cent of job openings are in the 'hidden job market', and are uncovered mainly through personal contacts, introductions, and referrals," said Javers.
"Face-to-face networking remains the most effective job-search method," she added.
She continued: "Summertime activities such as picnics, barbecues, and beach parties are great networking occasions.
"Job-seekers should also network with people they meet while on vacation, and consider planning trips to places where they may want to relocate," Javers added.
Job-seekers should try to do at least one proactive thing per day during the summer, she recommended.
"Call someone for a networking meeting who isn't in the mainstream of your discipline – for example, an old teacher, a coach, or your dentist.
"Try sharpening your interviewing skills by practising in front of a video camera. Use the time other people consider 'down time' to refine your job-search skills, get ahead of the competition, and be better positioned for any suitable openings that occur now and in the near future," Javers concluded.
