Happy 4th of July!! I hope everyone is enjoying themselves.  The weather in Seattle has been AMAZING the past few days (sorry, I have to brag just a little... since people always think it rains here).

Eventhough it's summer time, this is the time of year that many people begin to look for new jobs. Perhaps it’s the nice weather; the fact that you got back from vacation and realized that you hate your job, or maybe it’s the sight of your boss in short shorts. For whatever reason, people get an itchy finger this time of year.

One of my best friends is currently in the interview process at another company and he has been asking me a lot of questions. His process has been slow and not moving as fast as he would like, which got me thinking that there are a few things that I should let you know.

Here are some things to remember when applying for a job in the summer. Happy Hunting!

1. People are on vacation - this means your recruiter, the hiring manager, and everyone else on your interview loop. It may take a while for someone to get back to you. Please be patient.


2. Some companies may not have as many openings. It all depends on when they get headcount. Or, perhaps they hired college students as interns and have met the quota for the summer. Look to the job postings to see what’s available.


3. Don’t be afraid to take a vacation while in the interview process. Companies are reasonable. Don’t cancel any much needed vacations when interviewing. If you have a family vacation planned the day they want to interview, don’t be afraid to ask for another date - companies can be flexible.


4. Send out an email requesting next steps. Your recruiter may have gone on vacation, and if you email them perhaps they have an out-of-office auto reply that says who their understudy is. They may have info for you as well.


5. Don’t be blinded by sunny locations. Remember that this is the prettiest time of year, and jobs always seem to be the most fun on the surface when you show up for the company BBQ. Think of what it will be like in winter, when everyone is cold and angry again. (Ha ha!)


6. Companies may want you to start immediately. Remember that every job is different. A company that may not usually hire in the summer may have lost a key player, and may need their new employee to start ASAP. Remember, you should always give 2 weeks notice to your current employer. Your new company will respect that no matter how “urgent” they make the position seem.  

I think people are in the best mood during the summer months.  So, go out there and apply for that dream job! No time like the present to make a positive life change for yourself.

-Janelle