How to Nail a Job Change in Summer Guide & Checklist
10 June, 2025
Summary
Summer isn’t just for holidays, BBQs and (hopefully) enjoying the warm weather, it can also be the perfect time to make your next career move. While summer hiring can slow down in some sectors, there are clear advantages for job seekers who stay active during this time.
Here's how to make a strategic, successful career change this summer with a downloadable checklist to help you.
Why summer can be the ideal time to change jobs
Less Competition: Most people pause their job search over summer due to holidays or the misconception that no one is hiring. That leaves fewer competitors in the candidate pool and more opportunities for you to stand out from the crowd.
Work Still Takes Place: Businesses don’t stop in summer and employers still have hiring needs, especially in industries such as warehousing, healthcare and office roles. These can be on both a permanent basis or temporary, as businesses require cover for colleagues enjoying a summer break.
Increased Flexibility: Summer rotations often have a more relaxed structure, making it easier to attend interviews or networking events without the stress of a strict schedule. They also offer a valuable opportunity to get ahead of the autumn rush by starting CV and interview preparation early, well before many candidates begin their job search in September.
6 Steps to Nailing Your Summer Job Transition
Reflection
Use summer at a slower pace to assess your career goals. Maybe ask yourself:
- What do you like/dislike about your current or recent job?
- What do you want to do more of next?
- Do you want or require more flexibility?
- New challenges and objectives for personal development?
- Better culture fit and work team?
Update CV & relevant platforms
Now is a great time to update and polish your CV. Highlighting projects, leadership or deadlines reached, new skills and knowledge learnt. Anything that will make you stand out from the crowd. Don’t forget to make sure your new CV is on your preferred job board or with your favorite recruitment consultant.
Tip: Give your LinkedIn a glow up with a new stand out banner, recent professional profile pic and compelling headline, as well as updated skills and experience.
Utilise your network
Summer is also an excellent social vibe for catching up or connecting with people. Catch up with current or former coworkers, mentors, and even old friends. Strike a conversation, maybe grab coffee, take a walk or just shoot a quick message if meeting isn't possible.
Reconnecting with people can lead to valuable advice, mentorship, job leads, or simply support. These things that can have a lasting impact on your career and well-being.
Prepare for interviews
This may feel like jumping the gun, but now is a great time to give yourself an interview refresher. As well as having a suitable outfit ready for last minute interviews, it also helps to
go through common interview questions and practice answering so that you can respond briefly and confidently under pressure. Brush up on questions about your strengths and weaknesses, past work history, and most importantly why you wish to be employed by the specific job or firm. Check out our blog on interview hints and tips for advice.
Target companies who are hiring
Focus your job hunt on organisations and sectors that experience summer peak hiring. These are sectors such as warehousing, healthcare, and office roles.
Having a routine that is your own can make it so much easier, so you're prepared.
Maintain motivation
It's easy to slack during the summer, but don't let your job search completely die out. Commit some time every week to build your network, research opportunities, apply for roles and commit to keeping it up. Failing to keep your goals as a priority and not making continuous effort can significantly reduce your chances of making it.
Why not download your summer job change checklist?
With less competition, greater flexibility and a solid plan, you can make the most of the summer and start fresh with an exciting new job.
