Is Your Career in a Summer Slump? Here’s How to Reset Before September
Right now, the pace of life feels slower. The sun’s out, inboxes are quieter, and most people are in holiday mode, especially hiring managers. But while the recruitment market cools down in July and August, it also creates the perfect moment to pause and reset.
If your career feels stuck or uninspired, you’re not alone. The summer slump is real. But it’s also an opportunity. Because the people who use this quiet time well? They’re the ones who enter September ahead of the curve.
Here’s how to do it.
1. Reflect Before You React
Before you rush into updating your CV or applying to every open role, take stock.
Ask yourself:
- What’s working for me in my current job (or recent roles)?
- What’s draining me?
- What do I want more of or less of?
And, simply write it down without overthinking, but just honest notes. This is the raw data you’ll use to shape your next step.
2. Refresh Your Profile, One Small Step at a Time
Career updates often feel overwhelming because we leave them for too long. Don’t wait for the perfect moment just start.
After career reflection, update your CV headline and add a recent project to your LinkedIn. If you speak multiple languages, say so with confidence cultural fluency is a business asset in 2025.
Progress doesn’t come from giant leaps. It comes from consistently showing up in small ways.
3. Learn One Thing That Moves You Forward
You don’t need to sign up for a 12-week course. Just pick one skill that sharpens your edge or sparks your curiosity.
It could be:
- A free LinkedIn Learning course on negotiation
- A YouTube series on Excel shortcuts
- A Future Learn class on AI and work trends related.
One hour a week is enough. Think habits, not heroics.
4. Reach Out, Even If It Feels Awkward
Opportunities rarely come from cold applications. They often come from conversations.
Use this quieter season to reconnect:
- Message a recruiter (like ABL!) for a casual chat
- Check in with an old colleague
- Comment on a connection’s post and see where it leads
Networking isn’t about selling yourself. It’s about staying visible, so when opportunities open, you’re already in the room.
5. Set One Clear Goal for September
You don’t need to set 10 goals. Set one that you can ensure to accomplish.
It could be:
- Apply for 3 jobs
- Get feedback on your CV
- Practice interview answers with a friend
The simpler your goal, the more likely you’ll follow through.
Final Thought: Rest Is Part of the Strategy
Resting isn’t quitting. Reflection isn’t wasting time. They’re both strategic moves.
The hiring market will pick up again by the end of Q3. If you take 30 minutes each week between now and then to reset, reflect, and rebuild. You’ll enter that new, focused, ready season and also see things clearly.
Looking for your next role? Or just want to share options?
Reach out to the ABL Recruitment team today. We specialise in connecting multilingual professionals with careers that truly fit.
