Memorial Day weekend just passed, which is a sign that summer is literally around the corner. Summer, historically, isn't the best time to land a new job but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't start getting ready for a job search in the fall. If you have been thinking of entering the job market spend the summer enjoying the weather and having fun with your family but also dedicate a little bit of time to preparing to start your search in earnest this fall.

Here are a few tips to help you get ready to start your job search:

1. Update your resume. If you find this difficult to do on your own get professional help but make sure that your resume is a great tool that you can use to sell your skills.
   
   
2. Consider going back to school. If you haven't finished your undergraduate degree spend time this summer researching alternatives including online programs. A college degree is a must in an ever-more-competitive job market. If you have a college degree and have thought about graduate school, spend the summer taking preparatory courses and filling out graduate school applications for fall or winter admissions.
   
   
3. Think about what you really want to spend your time doing. Are you passionate about something other than what you are getting paid to do? Spend your summer doing a little soul searching to figure out what you really want to do. It's worth the time to figure out what makes you happy. We spend a lot of time at work and it's more fun if you really love what you do.
   
   
4. Research. Research potential careers in other industries if they interest you. Or, if you are thinking of starting your own company do your homework about starting a new business, raising capital, and writing a business plan. If, after you have done the research, you decide that entrepreneurship isn't for you, at least you can launch a full fledged job search in the fall.
   
   
5. Investigate online tools to help in your search. There are many great tools like Jibber Jobber and LinkedIn to help you manage a job search...find out what is out there and start making them work for you.
   
   
6. Consider a career coach. If you are having trouble figuring out how to navigate a job search or if you just need someone to talk to about potential career options call a good career coach. I collaborate with two career coaches who are the real deal: Brooke Vuckovic and Brian Anderson...check out their websites and give one of them a call.
   
   
7. Talk to your boss. Find out how you are doing at work by starting a dialogue with your boss about your performance. Interested in a promotion? Summer is a great time to put together a roadmap that will take you to the top of the organization.
   
   
8. Get in shape. There is nothing like getting yourself in top physical condition to get yourself motivated about putting on an interview suit and meeting new people. Plus you will have more energy and a positive frame of mind as you embark upon the journey toward a new job.
   
   
9. Meet recruiters. Get to know a few recruiters in your field. Offer to take them out for coffee so you can get to know the person on the other end of the phone. Recruiters are people too and if you develop a good relationship with one you will get better service and more open communication.
   
   
10. Have fun. Spend time with loved ones, run a 5K, raise money for your favorite charity, get involved in a community event, go to the beach, plant a garden full of flowers...whatever floats your boat. People who have fulfilling lives outside of work have more to talk about with acquaintances and are more appealing job candidates. Take care of yourself and your family and you will have a great attitude when you get ready for the job search!

Have a wonderful summer!