It’s summertime and the living is easy!  Right?  Well, if you are looking for a job, don’t let it become too easy.  It’s tempting to say that everyone is on vacation, the job market is slow, and to convince yourself to put your job search off until the fall.  Don’t! 

Use the casual summer vibe to strengthen your network.  Less hectic days at work might mean more flexibility for grabbing coffee or a longer lunch with your contacts.  Take advantage of "summer hours" (some companies have these!) to schedule appointments or focused time for research or resume writing.  At summer parties to talk, talk, talk to people about what they do and where their industry is headed.  Use the summer to get organized, make connections and build rapport so that when opportunities start to pop in the Fall you’ll be in position, front and center.

Barbara Safani provides a nice reminder of how productive the summer months can be for networking in Accelerate your Network in the Slow Summer Months. 

Get ready to network at the BBQ this weekend!