6 Things to Do to Uplevel Your Career This Summer
As the sunshine beckons and the backyard BBQs start to look a lot more appealing than Zooms, it becomes all too easy to put off those small but essential career-building tasks. However, the less-harried pace of the office during the lazy days of summer may actually provide an opportune time to do a little professional fine-tuning.
Here are some summer to-dos that could give your career a boost:
1. Revamp Your Online Bios
Take some time to assess whether the descriptors you use to define your professional persona on the internet truly showcase your best self. Consider crafting three versions of your online bio:
- A micro bio for social media platforms like Twitter (around 50 words).
- A medium-length bio for your professional blog or website, as well as content you contribute to other sites (about 100 words).
- A deeper-dive version for platforms like LinkedIn or your company’s staff “about” pages (up to 500 words).
2. Liven Up Your LinkedIn Page
LinkedIn is a primary tool for employers searching for candidates. Use your time wisely by updating your profile with your latest credentials, promotions, or any other career strides you’ve made. Consider setting aside time every week to maintain your LinkedIn network. Additionally, if your profile photo hasn’t been updated in a while, now is the perfect time for a fresh look.
3. Request a Mid-Year Evaluation
If your company only conducts employee performance reviews once a year, summer may be a good time to request a mid-year evaluation. Use this opportunity to review your strengths and weaknesses, and make any necessary adjustments before the next formal review.
4. Take Your Networking Outdoors
Face-to-face interactions can go a long way toward furthering professional relationships. Take advantage of the nice weather by organizing outdoor networking events or incorporating networking into your summer activities.
5. Schedule Informational Interviews
If you’re considering a career change, use the summer months to schedule informational interviews with professionals in your desired industry. Their insights could provide valuable guidance as you plan your next career move.
6. Start a Career Journal
Consider starting a career journal to reflect on your thoughts and experiences. Journaling can help you discover things about yourself that can enhance your personal career brand, as well as help you cope with stress.
By tackling these tasks during the summer, you’ll be ahead of the game for the busy fall hiring season or when your boss takes a renewed interest in your duties in anticipation of year-end reviews. It’s the perfect time to invest in your professional development while enjoying the laid-back vibe of the season.
Remember, you are capable of big things!
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